tourist guide of glasgow

Visit Glasgow

Top 5 city break in the world (time out, 2022), the ideal shopping city.

From independent stores to high street retailers, Glasgow is the best shopping city.

Glasgow's city centre is home to flagship stores, impressive shopping centres and designer favourites all within an easily walkable area. The city is also rich in artists and creators which makes for a thriving and exciting independent shopping scene.

More things to see & do

The basics to get you started.

From getting here, getting around and exploring the city, here's everything you need to know.

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Why we love Glasgow

Pushing the boundaries of art and culture, tunes that rock the city, varied shopping and a heart that beats through its people, what’s not to love about Glasgow? Its Gothic and Victorian architecture, a landlocked lighthouse, and sleek silver lines of the Zaha Hadid-designed Riverside Museum resting on the River Clyde all make it easy on the eye. Culture vultures can seek out top art or a stuffed elephant at the bohemian Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

Take a walking tour of its street art on the Glasgow Mural Trail or check out its plethora of vegan eateries. And loving all things sustainable – there’s 300km of bike paths, paddle boarding and a nightclub powered by the heat of its revellers to discover.

Art Pistol & Rogue Oner, Bubbles/Glasgow Mural Trail

Follow the trail 

Eye-catching designs and transformed spaces breathe new life into Glasgow’s streets. Discover the quirky, eclectic and radical graffiti on its Mural Trail .

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Glasgow’s outdoors

Get out and about in Glasgow with its many outdoor activities . Hidden away behind the elegant medieval Glasgow Cathedral is the incredible Victorian necropolis. Taking in views over the city, it was the final and majestically quirky resting place of noble locals. Or take a stroll to the Glasgow Botanic Gardens where you can listen to live music and outdoor theatre shows throughout summer, and Pollok Country Park (just south of the city) boasts not only a stately Edwardian manor, but mountain bike trails and The Burrell Collection art gallery.

State-of-the-art galleries

With regular galleries, rotating exhibitions and events throughout the year, 2024 at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is shaping up to be action packed. Look out for Glaswegian artist Alasdair Gray’s Cowcaddens, the GlaswegAsians exhibition, plus daily organ recitals.

DF Concerts & Events

Transmitting cool vibes

Taking place in the city’s Glasgow Green, dance the night away at TRNSMT Festival with big names in the world of music. 2024 is no exception, with Liam Gallagher, Gerry Cinnamon and Calvin Harris headlining over this three day event.  

The Finnieston

Discover Glasgow’s sustainable dining

Whether you’re sipping cocktails at The Finnieston Bar, dining at Tiffney’s or Gamba for locally sourced foods, or tucking into Stereo’s 100 per cent vegan tapas, Glasgow has a raft of sustainable, vegan or vegetarian dining options. Check out The Dockyard Social for Scottish craft beers, fancy cocktails and street food stall, all accompanied by a party vibe inside a converted warehouse.

Glasgow city centre walking tour

Discover Glasgow through the eyes of a local, on a 1.5 hour guided tour of the city centre’s must-see spots. From cathedrals to street art and even Doctor Who, find out what makes this Scottish city so unique. 

Things to do in Glasgow

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Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

As well as live concerts and spectacular Baroque architecture, Kelvingrove is home to 8,000 treasured exhibits too.

Gallery of Modern Art

This free gallery is home to Glasgow’s modern and contemporary art collection, and also hosts craft workshops and curator talks too.

The Clydeside Distillery

Calling all whisky lovers! This single malt distillery offers tours and tastings galore – including artisan chocolate pairings.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens

With an ornate glasshouse at its heart, this is one of Scotland’s finest gardens, with a history dating back over 200 years.

Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow Mural Trail

Glasgow’s Mural Trail transforms the city’s streets.

Glasgow Music City Tours

Discover the city’s legendary music spots on these toe-tapping walking tours, including folk pubs and the famous stage of King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut.

Premium Scottish seafood and top-quality gins: that’s the promise of this award-winning restaurant.

Glasgow Necropolis

With its ornate tombs and magnificent sculptures, this Victorian graveyard offers fascinating guided tours.

University of Glasgow Cloisters

Take a tour of the university’s architectural gems, to discover these iconic soaring columns and archways.

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Riverside Museum

From skateboards and scooters to trains, ships and classic cars, explore this vast transportation collection.

Pride Glasgow

This annual festival strives for equality and inclusion, and honours the LGBTQIA+ trailblazers.

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TRNSMT, Glasgow

Showcasing the latest in British indie and rock music, this Glasgow based summer festival has welcomed the likes of Sam Fender and Paolo Nutini.

Glasgow Royal Concert Hall

Catch everything from classical concerts and famous operas to legends of pop, folk and musicals.

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Raves, festivals, club nights, gigs: there’s something amazing on the agenda almost every night of the week.

SWG3 Glasgow

Glasgow Street Art Walking Tour

Don’t just admire Glasgow’s street art: learn about the creators, inspirations and stories behind each piece.

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Dear Green Coffee

Coffee lovers, look out for this ethical brand while you’re in Scotland – and take a tour of its Glasgow roastery.

Invisible Cities Tour Glasgow

These tours are led by people who’ve experienced homelessness, before training up as excellent guides.

Invisible Cities CIC

Princes Square

This luxury mall celebrates the finer things in life, featuring boutiques, bistros and a cinema.

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Hotpod Yoga Glasgow

This isn’t your regular hot yoga studio: it’s a calming multisensory journey in an illuminated cocoon…

Forget herbal teas: at this gin-inspired spa, every 60-minute treatment comes with a complimentary G&T.

The Gin Spa

Glasgow Green

This award-winning idyll is the oldest park in Glasgow – a haven of walks and picnic spots.

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West Highland Way

Discover the beauty of the Highlands on this 96-mile (154km) walking trail, between Milngavie and Fort William.

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The Dockyard Social

True to its name, this street food spot is all about great mates, big laughs and happy times.

Dockyard Social

Burrell Collection

Explore art treasures by the likes of Cézanne and Degas, plus one of Britain’s largest Chinese collections.

CSG CIC Glasgow Museums and Libraries Collection

Glasgow Paddleboarders Co.

These guided paddleboarding trips reveal the beauty of Glasgow’s waterways and wildlife.

Glasgow Paddleboarders Co

Ibrox Stadium

From the dressing rooms to the dugout: a tour of Ibrox puts you right in the heart of the action.

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Glasgow Wake Park

Scotland’s first urban wake park offers a cable course, gnarly trick obstacles and expert instructors.

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Drygate Brewing Co

Famous for its small-batch beers, this craft brewery offers a 23-tap brasserie, lively bar and tours.

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The Wee Food Tour

Take a bite out of Glasgow’s food, culture and history on these fun, informative walking tours.

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Glasgow Central Museum

From infamous stories to mysterious tunnels, discover the hidden depths of this historic train station.

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Glasgow Jazz Festival

Featuring musicians from all over the world, this is a four-day fiesta of blues, funk, soul and jazz.

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Pollok Park

The home of the Burrell Collection, this vast green space features woodlands, gardens and walking trails.

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Buchanan Street

For high street favourites, designer labels and fashion-packed department stores, you’ve come to the right place.

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St Enoch Centre

As well as a huge range of stores, this city-centre mall offers great food and live entertainment galore.

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The Hidden Lane

With over 100 artists’ studios, craft workshops and indie shops, it’s worth seeking out this quirky quarter.

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Featured things to do

Grab a paddle

Whether SUPing for the first time or a seasoned expert looking for adventure, there’s a session for all. With kit suitable for children to adults, get out on the water and explore Scotland from your board.

Fabio Paiva

Dance to the beat of Glasgow’s outdoor music festivals

Dance along at the three-day electronic Riverside Festival and check out Summer Nights at the Bandstand at Kelvingrove Park, with 13 nights of live music from established artists.

The Gin to my Tonic Craft Spirit Show

One of the largest gin, rum and vodka festivals in the country, sample unlimited tastings and cocktail bars galore while learning from the experts during bags of masterclasses highlighting the best of the UK's craft spirits scene.

Festive Glaswegian cheer

Gather around the shores of Loch Lomond for a free Christmas festival and take in Glasgow’s festive markets before rounding the year of with Hogmanay.

Places to stay in Glasgow

City centre.

Packed with dining out options, shopping and nightlife, this culturally-rich neighbourhood provides a base for discovering street art, Merchant City and more.

Home to top attractions and quirky lanes, a stay in this bohemian area provides a true taste of Glasgow.

From the city’s largest parks and outdoor spaces to chic cafes, explore the chilled side of Glasgow.

Explore nearby

From palaces to cobbled alleys and even a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

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Borders and Lowlands

The gateway into Scotland, the Borders and Lowlands pack a punch.

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Getting to Glasgow

Glasgow Airport is Scotland’s second busiest international hub, and is just a 15-minute bus ride from the city centre. If you’re travelling from London, Avanti West Coast runs the quickest service, taking around four hours and 30 minutes. Edinburgh is just 50 minutes away, while the city also has connections to Birmingham and Manchester, among other hubs.

Getting around

Central Glasgow can easily be explored on foot, while an extensive subway and bus network provides connections to the suburbs and surrounding areas. A Roundabout ticket provides unlimited one-day travel on ScotRail and the Subway to more than 110 stations.

Subway trains run up to every four minutes at peak times, serving a circuit of 15 stations.

First Bus Greater Glasgow services extend throughout the city, providing a quick and convenient means of travel.

Glasgow is really easy to explore by bike using its 185 miles (300km) of cycleways. Pick up a rental bike from OVO and others.

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Glasgow City Centre

Glasgow's vibrant city centre lies north of the River Clyde. Its heart is George Square, a 19th-century municipal showpiece crowned by the City Chambers.

Glasgow's commercial centre spreads west of George Square, and is mostly built on a large grid system of roads lined by grand Victorian buildings and modern skyscrapers.

The city centre offers some of the best shopping experiences outside of London, arranged along the interlinked and mostly pedestrianised thoroughfares of Argyle Street, Buchanan Street and Sauchiehall Street. The large contemporary mall Buchanan Galleries is close to Princes Square, one of the most stylish shopping centres in the country.

There is a wonderful array of restaurants and cafes in the city centre, while major cultural offerings include the Gallery of Modern Art , the showpiece Royal Concert Hall and the Theatre Royal .

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Tourist Advice for Visitors to Glasgow

As the largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is a wonderful destination for tourists. The city has well over a thousand years of history and is home to many of the finest historic buildings in the country, but it’s also an ultra-modern city with many of Scotland’s best restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

Discover everything you need to know about visiting this incredible metropolis in this complete Glasgow tourist information guide, which includes details about where to eat, where to stay, transport, the weather, and the best places to go shopping.

How to Get to Glasgow

One of the reasons Glasgow is so popular is that it’s easy to get to thanks to excellent transport links both inside the city and on its outskirts.

If you’re choosing to fly, you’ll find Glasgow Airport (address: Paisley, PA3 2SW) is just a 15-minute bus ride from the city centre using the Glasgow Airport Express service 500. These buses are ultra-efficient and depart every 10 minutes, so you’ll never wait long to catch one, plus they operate 24/7 (except for Christmas Day).

You’ll find them at the airport stance 1 when you arrive and Buchanan Bus Station stance 46 when you depart. They’re reasonably priced at around £20 for a family ticket.

Be aware that Glasgow Airport is enormous (it is, after all, an international travel hub serving more than 30 airlines) and it gets very busy, so the airport buses are more often than not jam-packed. With that in mind, you might prefer to hire a taxi from the dedicated taxi ranks at the airport entrance or take a train into the city centre from Paisley Gilmour Street station, which is around one mile from the terminal.

Note: If you need more information about how to travel around the city, the Glasgow tourist information centre is located inside the International airport. There is a second information centre in George Square in the city centre.

The other major airport you could use is Glasgow Prestwick (address: Prestwick KA9 2PL) which is quite a bit further out at 32 miles from the city centre but has its own railway station that connects to Glasgow Central Station in just 45 minutes.

Glasgow Prestwick airport has shuttle services to outlying car parks if you’d rather drive, and it also has bus services that connect to the city centre. Check out the Stagecoach website for further details.

Another popular travel option is the train and you can reach the city centre from the south of Scotland at Glasgow Central Station or from Edinburgh and the north of Scotland at Queen Street Station .

Both stations are easily accessible from the city centre and make travelling to the rest of the country an absolute breeze, especially if you intend to combine a visit to Glasgow with Edinburgh as the train journey between them only takes one hour.

If you want to find out more about Scotland’s airports and how to travel between them take a look at: The Complete Guide to Scotland’s Airports or for train travel check out: How to Tour Scotland by Train .

How to Travel Around Glasgow

Much like Edinburgh’s 18th-century New Town design, Glasgow is built on a grid system which makes it easy to navigate. There’s an extensive bus network provided by First Bus , and taxis can be hailed from pretty much anywhere in the city centre.

Due to the fact that many of the best tourist attractions are spread across the city I recommend you take advantage of the SPT Subway system which runs in a circle around the most-visited areas. You can then walk to your destination from the nearest station.

The subway – the only one in Scotland – is insanely convenient and takes just 24 minutes to complete a full circuit of its 15 stations. The carriages are clean and modern, and the tickets are reasonably priced at around £4 for an all-day adult smart card.

As a top tip, I recommend heading to the SPT website and downloading a copy of their station map as it will help you visit the city’s attractions and find the most convenient subway stops. Alternatively, head over to Google Maps as they also list all the SPT stations.

Glasgow’s buses, meanwhile, have to contend with jam-packed streets and I’m afraid they’re not a patch on Edinburgh’s beautifully clean Lothian Buses. That being said, First Buses cover the entire city, and you can get an adult day ticket across all city zones for around £5, which makes it a cheap way to go sightseeing.

Your best resource for using buses in Glasgow is the First Bus website which has a handy travel planner, but they also have a dedicated mobile app that offers the same service.

As far as taxis are concerned, they’re by far the easiest option but also the most expensive. Glasgow Taxis are the official licenced service, and they have an amazing website that makes booking an absolute doddle. They have a fleet of over 800 taxis and operate 24/7, 365 days a year, so you’ll always be able to get to your destination no matter what the other types of public transport are doing.

Where to Stay in Glasgow

In my experience, booking hotels in Glasgow is much easier than in Edinburgh. Edinburgh attracts more tourists than Glasgow, and it’s a much smaller city, meaning hotels have to be booked well in advance, especially in the summer.

Glasgow, on the other hand, is almost twice the size of the capital and is more geared towards being a business hub which in turn means there are more hotels and they’re generally cheaper. These reasonable prices make Glasgow an attractive option for tourists, with the added bonus that there’s no need to search for accommodation on the city’s outskirts, as you often have to do when visiting the capital.

Having stayed in Glasgow many times over the years, I have a few recommendations which I’ll list below along with a selection of others that have good online reviews. All of these hotels are located within walking distance of the city centre, and most offer a decent breakfast, free WiFi, free parking, and disabled access.

Budget Hotels

The Z Hotel Glasgow .   Address: 36 North Frederick Street, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G1 2BS. Located just 200 yards from Queen Street Station, this hotel caters to travellers on a budget while offering a high level of accommodation. The hotel serves a continental breakfast each morning and a selection of light meals throughout the day.

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, free WiFi, 24-hour front desk, lift, bar.

Point A Hotel Glasgow . Address: 80 Bath Street, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G2 2EN. This budget chain focuses on offering cheap, clean, and modern rooms at a very affordable price. Prices tend to be around the same as Travelodge, but the rooms are nicer, though maybe a little bit smaller. This particular hotel is located close to the Royal Concert Hall.

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, parking, facilities for disabled guests, 24-hour front desk, lift.

ibis budget Glasgow . Address: 2A Springfield Quay, South, Glasgow, G5 8NP. Ibis budget hotels are nicer than their name suggests. The rooms are modern, elegant, and undeniably cheap, but a wee bit small. Perhaps most importantly, this hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the city centre.

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, WiFi available in all areas, free parking, pets allowed, bar, good breakfast.

Mid-Range Hotels

ibis Styles Glasgow Central . Address: 116 Waterloo Street Douglas House, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G27DN. This hotel is located less than a mile from George Square and the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. The rooms are modern and elegantly styled, though not much larger than a Travelodge room. However, they include lots of features, such as a smart TV and coffee facilities, and there’s a relaxed lounge/restaurant in the foyer.

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, family rooms, facilities for disabled guests, restaurant, room service, 24-hour front desk, bar, very good breakfast.

Motel One Glasgow . Address: 78-82 Oswald Street , Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G1 4PL. Motel One is a chain that successfully manages to bridge the gap between budget prices and mid-tier quality. This hotel is conveniently located close to George Square and features a great lounge area.

Facilities: non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, free WiFi, pets allowed, 24-hour front desk, bar, good breakfast.

Dakota Glasgow . Address: 179 West Regent Street, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G2 4DP. The Dakota chain leans towards business travellers, which in turn means the rooms are of a very high standard. Dakota is best known for its executive suites, which offer top-tier luxury rooms at mid-range prices. This hotel is located one mile from the Kelvingrove Art Gallery .

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, restaurant, room service, WiFi available in all areas, parking, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, bar, fabulous breakfast.

Top-Tier Hotels

One Devonshire Gardens a Hotel Du Vin . Address: One Devonshire Gardens, North West, Glasgow, G12 0UX. This 5-star boutique hotel in Glasgow’s fashionable west end features luxurious rooms, a well-stocked wine cellar, and a restaurant that sources its meat from the king’s own supplier.

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, fitness centre, family rooms, facilities for disabled guests, restaurant, room service, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, bar, superb breakfast.

Kimpton-Blythswood Square Hotel . Address: 11 Blythswood Square, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G2 4AD. The 5-star Kimpton Hotel dates from 1823 and is located in the heart of Glasgow city centre. Each room features a marble bathroom, and hotel guests have access to a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, and a first-class restaurant.

Facilities: Swimming pool, non-smoking rooms, very good fitness centre, facilities for disabled guests, spa and wellness centre, restaurant, room service, bar, very good breakfast.

Sherbrooke Castle Hotel . Address: 11 Sherbrooke Avenue, South, Glasgow, G41 4PG. Sherbrooke Castle Hotel is situated a little outside of the city centre, but it is the best choice for tourists looking for a peaceful location. The hotel sports enormous luxury bedrooms, a well-stocked bar, and an à la carte restaurant.

Facilities: non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, restaurant, room service, free parking, pets allowed, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, bar, superb breakfast.

If you’re ready to book your Glasgow hotel, I recommend using the  Travel Supermarket website  which lists virtually every hotel in the city at competitive prices you’re unlikely to find elsewhere.

Where to Eat in Glasgow

Glasgow takes the crown as the city with the best restaurants in Scotland and it isn’t far behind London when it comes to quality dining, whether it’s ultra-luxurious French cuisine or fragrant dishes from the Orient.

The majority of the top places to eat are located in the city centre, where you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice at all price ranges, although even ‘budget’ isn’t that cheap in Glasgow, which has seen year-on-year menu price rises. Still, if you’re a foodie looking to try something new, there’s no better place to eat than Glasgow, and the city recently received its first Michelin star at the superb (and expensive) Cail Bruich.

As nice as the finest restaurants are, their prices mean the majority of Glasgow tourists will have their sights set elsewhere, so I’ve included a selection of quality city centre restaurants that have affordable menus in the following list.

Horn, please . Address: 91B, Berkeley Street, G3 7DX.

A contemporary restaurant that serves Indian dishes with a modern twist. The interior is relaxed and inviting, and the menu is mouth-watering, with a highly-rated selection of cocktails to compliment each dish.

Bread Meats Bread . Address: Horn Please, 91B, Berkeley Street, G3 7DX.

This is probably the best place in Glasgow for burgers, all of which are as up-market and as far-removed from fast-food joints as it’s possible to get. The portions are huge too.

The Finnieston . Address: 1125, Argyle Street, G3 8ND.

This restaurant on Argyle Street has a wonderful old-school charm mixed with a trendy atmosphere that makes it one of the best in the city for couples and young families. The menu is predominantly seafood but there are vegetarian options as well.

Chaakoo Bombay Café . Address: 79, St Vincent Street, G2 5TF.

An ultra-chic dining experience based on 19th-century Iranian cafés and styled to match. The food is mostly meat dishes that are served on small plates that guests are encouraged to share between them.

Six by Nico . Address: 1132, Argyle Street, G3 8TD.

The unique menus of Six by Nico change completely every six weeks, so re-visiting later in the year means you’ll get to experience new tastes and food styles. The decor is relaxed and informal, and the food is highly rated among those in the know.

Sugo Pasta . Address: Mitchell Street, G1 3LN.

Sugo Pasta is an Italian restaurant that features the very best dishes from Tuscany, Sicily and Abbruzzo. Obviously, pasta is the name of the game at this restaurant and their freshly-made pasta is widely regarded as the finest in the city.

The Spanish Butcher . Address: 80, Miller Street, G1 1DT.

Merchant City is a famous area of Glasgow that’s home to designer boutiques and gourmet places to eat, including this restaurant which serves dishes inspired by flavours from Spain and the Mediterranean.

Alchemilla . Address: 1126 Argyle St, Glasgow, G3 8TD.

Another Argyle Street favourite, Alchemilla is a feat for the senses with a menu that’s inspired by the Mediterranean. Dishes are presented on small plates that are designed for Tapas-style sharing.

Kimchi Cult . Address: 14 Chancellor Street, G11 5RQ.

This is one of the few Korean-style fast food restaurants in Scotland but it has received acclaim thanks to its reasonably-priced dishes that feature big, bold flavours.

Ox and Finch . Address: 920 Sauchiehall St, Finnieston, Glasgow, G3 7TF.

This is another trendy restaurant, only this time it features a selection of dishes that are predominantly sourced from Scotland. Of particular note is the extensive wine list that offers something to go with any and every meal.

Bilson Eleven . Address: 10 Annfield Place, Dennistoun, Glasgow, G31 2XQ.

A very small, exclusive, and utterly delectable restaurant that prides itself in serving the finest Scottish produce in the city. Reservations are a must and although the prices are high, the quality of food on offer is even higher. This is the place to eat on very special occasions.

The Hanoi Bike Shop . Address: 8 Ruthven Lane, Glasgow, G12 9BG.

Vietnamese restaurant that welcomes visitors to its informal and intimate setting with tables for two, bright plastic stools, and delicious food featuring spicy chicken and seafood dishes served with melt-in-your-mouth noodles.

The Gannet . Address: 1155 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8TB.

The Gannet opened in 2013 to rave reviews thanks to its fine Scottish dining that’s offered at very reasonable prices. The interior is minimalistic and cheery and the food ranges from light seafood dishes to hearty beef platters.

The weather & best time to visit Glasgow

Due to the fact the west coast is close to the Atlantic, you’ll frequently find temperatures are a little bit cooler than the east coast, although because Glasgow is set inland it misses out on many of the downpours that the coastal towns are subjected to.

July and August (according to holidayweather.com ) are regarded as the hottest months with average temperatures sitting around 15 °C, while January tends to be the coldest with average temperatures of 3 °C.

Bear in mind these are average temperatures and day-to-day conditions can vary considerably so don’t be surprised to find yourself in blazing high-20s sunshine in summer and below-freezing blizzards in winter.

That being said, you can pretty much guarantee that outside of the summer months you’ll be subjected to quite a few rainy days and unfortunately Glasgow doesn’t fare too well when it comes to getting a good-old-fashioned British downpour.

December and January suffer the worst of the wet weather, with an average of 25 rainy days per month, and even August gets between 10 and 15 days of rain, so you might want to pack an umbrella if you’re thinking of visiting. But at least Glasgow gets plenty of summer daylight, and you’ll find the sun rising around 5 am and setting at 10 pm, giving you a full 17 hours of light to enjoy.

This is in contrast to winter when the sun rises around 8.30 in the morning and sets around 4 pm, giving you a miserable 7 and a half hours of light which might be worth bearing in mind if you’re thinking of visiting the city in the colder months.

The upside of visiting Glasgow in the winter is that there are far fewer tourists, which means queues for the top attractions are virtually non-existent and hotel prices are much lower—often half of what you’d expect to pay in the summer. So bearing the weather in mind, which are the best months to visit Glasgow?

Well, to be honest, there is no ‘best’ time to visit Glasgow. Sure, in summer it’s warmer and the days are longer, but most visitors will spend the majority of the day indoors either exploring tourist attractions, dining in restaurants, or relaxing in their hotel.

While the weather might be a consideration if you’re planning to walk everywhere, due to Glasgow’s superb public transport options it’s possible to visit every corner of the city by bus, subway and taxi, meaning you hardly ever have to venture outdoors.

The one caveat that might affect your decision on when to visit is the events and festivals held throughout the year – the TRNSMT music festival and the Glasgow Christmas festival being two examples.

My advice for choosing a time to visit depends on how resilient you are to the cold and whether there are any specific festivals you’d like to see. For an updated list of upcoming Glasgow events, visit the eventbrite website.

Places to Go Shopping in Glasgow

Glasgow is well known for its shopping which is – without doubt – the best in Scotland. While Edinburgh has Princes Street and the newly-opened St. James Quarter, Glasgow shoppers can enjoy the entire city centre, which features most of the big-name brands on Buchanan Street, Sauchiehall Street, and Argyle Street.

In addition to the pedestrianised areas, there are a number of markets and shopping malls that feature a collection of boutique shops, and the city has become something of a Mecca for bargain hunters thanks to the market stalls that sell everything from designer cosmetics to vintage clothes. In fact, there are so many places to go shopping in Glasgow that it’s difficult to know where to start, so I’ve included an overview of recommended shopping areas below.

intu Braehead . As is the case with most modern out-of-town shopping centres, this one on King’s Inch Road looks like a square glass box from the outside, but inside shoppers can enjoy over 100 large stores in pleasant air-conditioned surroundings.

One thing that differentiates it from the other shopping centres on this list is the number of entertainment venues in addition to its shops, including a trampoline park, a laser tag arena, an indoor ski centre, and a rock climbing centre, amongst others. It’s definitely one to keep in mind if you’re travelling with children.

Argyll Arcade . If you’re looking for jewellery, there’s only one destination you need to keep in mind while in Glasgow, and that’s Argyll Arcade. This isn’t the largest shopping centre by a long margin, but there are an incredible 32 jewellers on the site that sell everything from top-end luxury watches to wedding rings and costume jewellery.

Of particular note is the Parisian-style decor of the arcade which dates back to 1827 (making it one of Europe’s oldest shopping arcades).

Buchanan Galleries . This shopping centre is located at the top of Buchanan Street and is recognised as one of the premier shopping destinations in the UK. Many of Glasgow’s biggest shops are located in Buchanan Galleries, including John Lewis, but there are also lots of smaller independent shops trading under its roof. In total, 80 businesses are located at Buchanan Galleries, which include a number of fast food outlets and coffee shops.

Royal Exchange Square . There are restaurants, bars, and shops all around this sizable public square in Glasgow. It’s best known for its canopy of twinkling lights that are very pretty and make a perfect backdrop to an evening shopping experience. The Gallery of Modern Art dominates the centre of the square, and George Street is just a couple of minutes away, so it’s likely you’ll end up visiting Royal Exchange Square whether you intend to or not.

Glasgow Fort . Glasgow Fort lies outside the city centre but has been included, as access to it is supremely easy thanks to plentiful car parking and dedicated bus links from the city centre. It has been designed to replicate the feel of a modern High Street and is much less crowded than any of the shopping districts in the city centre, making Glasgow Fort the preferred place to shop for locals.

Buchanan Street . This is the busiest and best-known shopping area of Glasgow, primarily because it’s located in the heart of the city centre so is easily stumbled upon by tourists as they make their way between attractions.

Buchanan Street is a pedestrianized street that features most of the big-name brands shoppers have come to expect, and it’s the go-to destination for weekend shoppers thanks to its diverse collection of bars, cafés, and restaurants nestled between the shops.

Merchant Square . Glasgow is chock-a-block full of attractive Edwardian buildings, and Merchant Square is a prime example of them with its sweeping panes of glass and dramatic multi-tiered arches. You’ll find it just a 5-minute walk from the St. Enoch Centre in Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.

A visit is highly recommended, as it’s the best place to find independent boutiques and homemade arts and crafts that are a world away from the giant stores you’ll find elsewhere. One important point to note is that this is the only retail area in Glasgow that has very late-night shopping, with some stores staying open until 3 am.

St. Enoch Centre . This certainly isn’t the prettiest indoor shopping centre in this list but it is one of the largest, featuring more than 100 individual stores retailing everything from fashion and gadgets to food, toys, and books. The St. Enoch Centre is notable for its enormous glass roof, which is the largest glass-enclosed area in Europe and has earned it the nickname ‘the Glasgow greenhouse’.

Princes Square . Chic Princes Square on Buchanan Street was originally built as a 4-story merchant square in 1841 but was converted into its present use as a stylish shopping mall in 1988 after undergoing a multimillion-pound refurbishment. This is best known as a fashion and jewellery mall, but it also hosts a cinema and a number of quality restaurants and cafés.

The Barras Market . The Barras Market is probably best known by locals, but if you’re a visiting weekend tourist looking to do something a little different outside of the city centre, it’s certainly worth making the 10-minute journey to Gallowgate. Once there, you’ll find a large traditional marketplace full of outdoor stalls that sell everything you can think of, from handmade ornaments to vintage fashion and domestic appliances.

Barras Market has a great atmosphere, and it’s worth visiting just for the delicious, but very unhealthy, food stalls that you won’t find elsewhere in the city centre.

What do I need to know before going to Glasgow?

1. Most of the main attractions in Glasgow are completely free to enter. Highlights include Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , the Tall Ship , the Peoples Palace, and the Riverside Museum , all of which have no entry fee.

2. Glasgow is home to Scotland’s only underground transport system. The SPT railway allows fast travel around the city on a circular route, with day tickets costing less than £5. Just remember that it closes at 6 pm on Sunday.

3. On a sunny day, there are several superb outdoor green spaces that are popular with locals; Glasgow Green , the Botanic Garden and Pollok Country Park are among the best. A hidden gem is the Necropolis .

Is Glasgow good for tourists?

Glasgow is a good city for tourists. The majority of the main attractions are free and getting around them is easy thanks to a subway, lots of buses, and plenty of taxis. Glasgow is also the best city in Scotland for shopping and is one of the best in the UK for nightlife.

What should I know before travelling to Scotland?

1. English is spoken everywhere in Scotland and is the main language in the south of the country. Heading north into the Highlands and into the Western Isles, the primary language changes to Scottish Gaelic.

2. Most Scots only wear kilts at formal events such as weddings, so trying to fit in by wearing a kilt at any other time will likely raise a few eyebrows.

3. Tipping is not mandatory in Scotland, but if you feel the service in a restaurant was good, feel free to leave an extra 5–10%. Many card terminals offer the option to add a tip when it’s time to pay.

How many days in Glasgow is enough?

For the majority of visitors, 2 days will be enough to experience the best that Glasgow has to offer. A 2-day itinerary can be found in this article: A Weekend Break in Glasgow .

Related Posts

The Best Things to Do in Glasgow With Children

The Best Things to Do in Glasgow City Centre

Pollok Country Park Visitor Guide

The Burrell Collection Visitor Guide

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

Savvy Travel Advice

Glasgow Travel Guide: Top 30 Things to do in Glasgow Scotland

Last updated: May 29, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 56 Comments

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland and there are so many things to do in Glasgow! The city is home to fantastic art galleries, historical National Trust properties, leafy green spaces, amazing street art, and a plethora of live music venues. Glasgow is perhaps not as well-known as Edinburgh to international travelers, but the reward of visiting here is a less crowded city where experiences seem less rushed and more authentic.

Glasgow is an easy city to love with its friendly and welcoming residents, dozens of free museums and attractions, burgeoning focus on craft food and drink, thriving live music scene, large number of Charles Rennie Mackintosh buildings, and beautiful country homes and parks. There is something in the city for everyone from those who love art and architecture to those who prefer breweries and music.

We’ll share our guide to Glasgow attractions, highlighting all the top things to do in Glasgow, from central Glasgow to the surrounding area.

Table of Contents:

Basic Info on Visiting Glasgow 

Where is glasgow.

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland and is situated alongside the River Clyde in the country’s West Central Lowlands. If you are looking at a map of Scotland, it is the southwestern quadrant of the country.

Getting to Glasgow

By Plane. There are multiple options for getting to Glasgow. First, you can fly into the  Glasgow Airport,  which has flights from a number of domestic and international destinations. If there is no direct flight, connecting flights from London, Edinburgh, or Dublin are frequent. The airport is a short shuttle bus or taxi ride from the city.

If you fly into or out of Edinburgh Airport instead, you can book a  CityLink shuttle bus which provides direct service between central Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport.

By Train. Glasgow is well-connected by train from locations throughout England and Scotland. You can save money on fares by booking train tickets well in advance. ScotRail and Trainline are good websites to check for train tickets.

By Sleeper Train.  If you are interested in taking an overnight sleeper train (runs between London and Inverness), you can check the  routes and schedule as most services stop in Glasgow. For more info, you can read about our Caledonian Sleeper train experience .

By Bus. If you are in the UK and would rather travel by bus, there are daily coach connections to Glasgow from a number of cities which generally take longer but may save you money compared to train fares. You can check National Express for coach connections and prices. 

By Car. For drivers, Glasgow is about 50 miles from Edinburgh (about 1 hour, 10 minutes), 170 miles from Inverness (about 3 hours), 215 miles from Manchester (about 3 hours, 30 minutes), and 415 miles from London (6 hours, 30 minutes).

Getting around Glasgow

Glasgow has an excellent public transport system which includes buses and an easy to use metro (there’s only one line and it goes in a circle, so you can’t get lost!). There are also taxis of course.

Driving in and around the city is also fairly easy although finding parking in the central area and around the university can be difficult, and using a bus or walking is recommended for reaching central locations.

There’s also the CitySightseeing Bus which is a hop-on, hop-off bus that will take you to all the highlights in the city and provides commentary so you can learn a bit more about the city and the sites you see.

Best time of year to visit Glasgow?

The best time of year to visit depends a lot on what you want to do, but one of our favorite times of year to travel in Scotland is May and June. The weather is generally decent, the days are long, and the attractions are not too crowded. Although note that Glasgow is rarely as crowded as Edinburgh gets in the summer months.

However, any time of the year is a a good time to visit Glasgow as most attractions are open year round. Generally it will be warmer in summer and colder in winter, but predicting the weather is impossible as it can be sunny in January or cool and raining in August.

We’d suggest just checking the weather forecast before you visit, and be prepared for variable weather by bringing plenty of layers and rain gear no matter when you plan to visit.

How many Days should I Spend in Glasgow? 

This depends primarily on how much time do you have and what you want to do. But I would recommend spending at least 2 full days and nights in Glasgow to get a good taste of the city, although you can of course see a few highlights on a day trip or spend a full week in the city and not run out of things to do.

The city is well-positioned for some excellent day trips as well to visit national parks, whisky distilleries, historical sites, and castles. We highlight a few of these at the end of the article, but you can also see our guide to the best Glasgow day trips  for more suggestions. 

To figure out how many days to spend in Glasgow, I would suggest using this post which lists all the main highlights and things do in Glasgow to create a list of places you want to visit. I would then figure out how many days it will take you to see all the Glasgow attractions you want (e.g. 3-5 attractions per day), and that should give you a good answer.

Where to Stay in Glasgow?

Glasgow has many lodging options, ranging from budget to upscale, and you should not have a problem finding an option that suits your style and budget. If you are looking for a hotel, then we’d recommend you check out the Glasgow accommodation listings on Booking.com which lists a large variety of hotels , apartments , guesthouses , and hostels . 

We recommend staying in a central location so you are within walking distance (or a short bus or tram ride) from the city center (George Square).

Here are several suggested accommodation options in Glasgow for a variety of budgets:

• Grand Central Hotel  – A 4-star historic hotel located next to Glasgow Central Station. The hotel features stylish rooms, bars, and restaurants.
• Jurys Inn  – A 4-star hotel offering good value rates with a restaurant, bar, and 24-hour reception. near Glasgow Central Station.
• Native Glasgow  – A central elegant apartment hotel in an Edwardian building with a 24-hour reception, concierge and on-site breakfast at the Anchor Line restaurant on the ground floor. Rooms feature seating areas, dining areas, and kitchens.
• Blythswood Square  – A 5-star luxury historical hotel offering well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and an on-site spa.
• Rennie Mackintosh Hotel – A 3-star hotel offering simple rooms, 24-hour reception, and a bar near Glasgow Central Station. Has design elements reminiscent of Mackintosh’s work.
• Point A Hotel  – A budget hotel in central Glasgow which offers small clean rooms and 24 hour reception, WIFI, and continental breakfast. Good place for those traveling on a tight budget.
• Sherbrooke Castle Hotel – A 19th century castle-like baronial villa turned 4-star hotel, offering well-appointed rooms, a bar, restaurant, and free parking. If you are looking for a castle like stay in Glasgow, this is one to check out. Outside of the city center.

We’ve also stayed in an apartment in Drygate , which was great value for money and within walking distance of the cathedral and city center.  You can also take a look at this list of Airbnb alternatives for more apartment rental options.

Discount Passes in Glasgow? 

Unfortunately there are no general discount passes for Glasgow; however, you’ll find that many of the city’s attractions are either free or inexpensive. Sometimes entry into one attraction may give you a discount into another as for example our City Sightseeing bus ticket came with a discount for the Science Museum.

If you are planning to visit several National Trust of Scotland (NTS) sites or Historic Scotland properties during your travels in Scotland, you may consider getting a traveler friendly and/or the Scottish Heritage Pass (valid April to October) to save money on entry fees. We have listed several National Trust sites in this Glasgow guide (i.e., Pollock House, Tenement House, Holmwood House, and Hill House) and there are over 120 properties cared for in Scotland by the NTS.

Where to find more Information? 

If you are looking for additional information about planning your trip to Glasgow, you can check out the Glasgow tourism website .

Once in Glasgow, you can get information from local experts, pick up maps and brochures, and make accommodation and ticket bookings at the VisitScotland iCentres located within the Domestic Arrivals Hall of Glasgow International Airport and the Gallery of Modern Art (Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, G1 3AH).

Things to do in Glasgow: Central Glasgow

There are so many things to do in Glasgow and luckily most are located within central Glasgow. Use this list to choose the attractions of interest and put together your own personalized Glasgow itinerary. All the spots in this first section are located within a 25 minute public bus ride from George Square although most are within a 10 to 20 minute walk.

George Square 

George Square is the main city square in central Glasgow. It was laid out in 1781 and named after King George III. It is notable for several important statues and monuments such as those dedicated to Robert Burns, James Watt, William Gladstone, Queen Victoria, and Sir Walter Scott. 

You’ll also find the Glasgow City Chambers along the east side of the square. It is a common meeting place in the city.

Glasgow City Chambers

The Glasgow City Chambers is a large Victorian era building that dominates the east side of George Square. It has served as a government building for the city since 1889, currently as the headquarters of the Glasgow City Council.

The building is worth seeing from the outside, but you can also take free guided tours of the inside. At the entrance you’ll see the city’s coat of arms and on a tour you can learn more about the history and function of the building as well as see more of the beautiful interior which includes marble staircases, mosaic ceilings, and mahogany paneling.

Tours are free and are typically given twice a day Monday to Friday, and tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. You can contact the City Chambers Duty Manager  by phone at 0141 287 4018 to ask about upcoming tour times.

Gallery of Modern Art

The Gallery of Modern Art  is located in the center of the city and is the most visited modern art gallery in Scotland. It has changing exhibitions of modern art from both local and international artists. The building itself has an interesting history, originally built in 1778 for wealthy tobacco merchant William Cunninghame. The art museum is free to visit.

In front of the art museum is one of Glasgow’s most iconic landmarks, the Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington. The interesting thing about the statue is the long-running placement each evening of a traffic cone on the top of the Duke’s head or his horse’s head (or both!). This long-running prank shows you a little of the local humor and character of Glaswegians I think.

The Lighthouse

The Lighthouse , Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture, serves as a visitor center, exhibition space, and events venue in central Glasgow. The building was designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh —his first public commission—and formerly was the headquarters of The Glasgow Herald.

Mackintosh is probably the most famous Scottish architect and designer of the 20th century and is known for being influential as a creator of the Glasgow Style . There is a Mackintosh exhibition here, temporary art exhibitions and events, a gift shop, information center, and even a viewing gallery with a good view of the city. A guided behind-the-scenes tour of the tour is also offered, you just need to book in advance. 

Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre

Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre is a one-of-the-kind show where kinemats (motorized machine sculptures) are synchronized to light and music. A Russian man named Eduard Bersudsky made all the figures, first in St. Petersburge and then in Glasgow. He started the show in the 1980’s with theatre director Tatyana Jakovskaya, and it re-opened in Glasgow in 1996 after he left Russia.

Bersudsky started making folk art, mostly carved figures and figures made from scrap in the 1970’s in Russia. Over time, the figures became more and more complex in design and movement. They tell stories from his life as well as stories about his home country, life, and death.

Laurence and I had first seen one of his works related to Robert Burns poem Tam O’Shanter that was on a temporary display at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Ayrshire, and had wanted to see the show ever since. We recently got to visit the Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre and really enjoyed the show. We had no idea what to expect and it was like no other art show or performance we have seen before.

During the show you move around to the different machines as each is lit up and performs. A accompanying handout tells you a little about the machine. For example, one was called The Time of Rats, made in 1991, and part of the description stated: “The mole is like Russia – a very strong but blind animal controlled by clever rats enjoying themselves on his back.”

This is a unique show and we recommend booking a ticket to see it if you have both the time and interest. You’ll want to book tickets in advance. There are 40-minute and 60-minute shows and you must arrive before the show begins. You see more of the kinemats perform in the longer show.

The Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre is located within Trongate 103 which is a arts center. Worth exploring as there are sometimes contemporary art exhibitions here and there is a nice gift shop.

St. George’s Tron Church

Saint George’s Tron Church first opened in 1808 and is one of the oldest buildings in this part of Glasgow. It is dedicated to Saint George and is part of the Church of Scotland.

The church made national headlines in 2012 when the then minister of the church, Reverend William Philip, and the entire congregation (about 500 members) formally left the Church of Scotland due to the Church’s discussion about permitting opening gay clergy. Since then, the Church of Scotland has inducted a new minister at the church and has been rebuilding the congregation here.

The church has opened a social enterprise cafe within the church which serves coffee, soup, scones, and snacks. It is a registered charity and proceeds go to helping local vulnerable people such as the homeless. When we last visited, there was also artwork on display by Iain Campbell related to the homeless of Glasgow. So a good place to get a cup of coffee if you are looking for one in the area.

The church is also an active church with regular services, bible studies, and other events.

Glasgow Cathedral & Necropolis

Glasgow Cathedral , also known as the High Kirk of Glasgow and the Cathedral of Saint Mungo, is Glasgow’s oldest building with part of it dating from 1136. Originally a Roman Catholic church (hence its name as a cathedral), it is now an active Church of Scotland gathering place as well as an important historic building. It’s here on this site that the patron Saint of Glasgow, St. Mungo , was believed to have founded his church, and he is buried in a crypt underneath the building.

There are a number of notable historical, religious, and architectural elements to be found here and it is a beautiful example of Scottish Gothic architecture. If you are really interested in the cathedral, I’d recommend that you can contact the cathedral in advance to arrange a guided visit.

Outside, you can cross a footbridge to the necropolis, which a is a large hillside burial ground and great place for a walk on a sunny day. The Cathedral and necropolis are free to visit although donations are appreciated. Nearby, you can also visit the Provand’s Lordship and the St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art. 

St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life & Art

A short walk from the cathedral, you’ll find the St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life & Art which is a museum that not only tells the history of religion in Scotland, but also covers a number of the world’s major religions. It contains a large amount of information and religious artifacts.

When we visited, there was an excellent exhibition on how death is handled among many of the world’s religions. You’ll also find a relaxing museum café here as well as a Zen garden, the first in Britain. The museum is free to visit.

Provand’s Lordship

Provand’s Lordship is a medieval building constructed in 1471, originally part of St Nicholas’s Hospital. It was lived in by various Cathedral clergy and is the oldest house in Glasgow.

This is one of only a few surviving medieval buildings in Glasgow. The building has been restored and is furnished to depict life between 1500 and 1700, showcasing a number of pieces of 17th century Scottish furniture donated by Sir William Burrell.

If you visit, be sure to step outside to see the pretty St Nicholas Garden, a medicinal herb garden located behind the building. Provand’s Lordship is free to visit and is only a 2 minute walk from Glasgow Cathedral.

Tennent’s brewery tour

Tennent’s is a popular Glasgow beer brand and its pale lager beer is known as “Scotland’s favourite pint”. If you are not familiar with it, you’ll probably start to notice all the red T’s in the restaurants and bars carrying its beer while in Scotland. Wellpark Brewery in Glasgow was founded in 1740 and today you can take a guided tour of the brewery to learn about Tennent’s history, brewing process, packing and distribution, and of course taste the beer.

We enjoyed our visit, as it was a well-organized and informative tour that ended with a generous beer tasting. The museum and sample room is a fun place to look around before or after the tour, having lots of memorabilia on display such as the famous “Lager Lovelies” cans. Guided tours are available daily, best to book in advance if you have a preferred tour time.

Note that guests must be wearing closed flat shoes suitable for walking around a work environment, be able to climb stairs, and children must be at least 12 and accompanied by an adult. Special access tours for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility can be arranged if you contact them in advance.

Glasgow Green

Glasgow Green is a historic park in the east part of the city that has been a public green space since the 15th century, making it the oldest park in Glasgow. The land was first given to the people of Glasgow (and Bishop William Turnbull) by King James II in 1450. It was initially mainly used as grazing lands and over the centuries has been used for a multitude of purposes. A number of historic political demonstrations, concerts, and other events have been held here.

Within the 136 acre park, you can find a number of sites of interest including the Nelson’s Monument, fountains, McLennan Arch, Templeton Building (old carpet factory turned business center and living community), St. Andrew’s Suspension Bridge, People’s Palace, and the Winter Garden. Doulton Fountain is a notable highly decorated fountain designed by Arthur Edward Pearce for Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee in 1887.

The park also contains a network of footpaths, children’s play areas, and sports facilities. Glasgow Green is free and open to the public.

People’s Palace & Winter Gardens

The People’s Palace is a social history museum and cultural center set in Glasgow Green that holds a collection of historical artifacts, art, photographs, and other objects that tell the story of Glasgow and its people from the mid-18th century until modern times. You’ll find information and artifacts that range from a reconstructed early 20th century one-room tenement to comedian Billy Connolly’s infamous “Banana Boots”. ’

The building was designed by city engineer Alexander McDonald and opened in 1898 as a place for people to enjoy reading, art, and culture. The Winter Gardens, a Victorian glasshouse, is located behind the People’s Palace and it contains a collection of palms and exotic plants and also houses a café. A visit here is an easy way to spend an hour or two.

Admission is free to both the People’s Place & the Winter Gardens.

The Glasgow Police Museum

The Glasgow Police Museum is a small museum containing over 2,000 items related to policing both in Glasgow and around the world. The city of Glasgow Police was the first professional police force in Britain, being established by an Act of Parliament in 1800!

The museum is split into two permanent exhibitions: 1) The Glasgow Police Historical Exhibition contains artifacts and information related to the City of Glasgow Police from 1779 to recent times and 2) The International Police Exhibition has information and artifacts from police forces around the world.

The museum is currently open two days a week. Admission is free but a donation is greatly appreciated to help keep the museum operating.

University of Glasgow 

The University of Glasgow was founded in 1451, making it the fourth oldest university in the UK and the second oldest in Scotland. It has more listed historical buildings than any other university in the UK and the exteriors are easy to explore on a self-guided or guided tour. The university also has several museums and attractions that are open to the public.

All of the sites within the University of Glasgow are within walking distance of each other, including the visitor center, Hunterian Art Gallery, The Mackintosh House, and Hunterian Museum.

Parking can be difficult on weekdays as there is limited pay-and-display parking available to visitors, so taking the bus or subway may save you time even if you have a car.

University Tours

If you are interested in touring the university and learning more about the architecture and some of the famous scholars and professors, you can do a self-guided or guided tour of the university.

You can stop at The Welcome Point (open Monday-Friday), the university’s visitor information center, located in the McIntyre Building near the main university gate for campus maps and information. You can book a guided university tour at the visitor center or in advance online .

On the tours you can see some of the university’s most historical buildings and architectural elements as well as learn about some of its most important people, such as economist Adam Smith, television pioneer John Logie Baird, physicist Lord Kelvin, and artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh. 

Hunterian Art Gallery 

The Hunterian Art Gallery , located next to the University Library, holds a collection of over 900 permanent works of art. Although it holds art from artists around the world, it has an especially large collection of art from Scottish artists, including a large number of works by the Scottish Colourists, Glasgow Boys, and Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Highly recommend a visit here for those interested in Scottish art. The main collection is free to see with admission charges for special exhibits.

The Mackintosh House

The Mackintosh House is a reconstruction of the home where architect and artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his artist wife Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh lived together from 1906 to 1914. The house was not designed by Mackintosh but the original Victorian house was remodelled and redecorated by Mackintosh. The original house was demolished in the 1960’s, but the fixtures and furniture were preserved.

The original interior spaces were faithfully recreated as closely as possible at The Mackintosh House and the majority of the furniture in the house is from the original house. Many of the furniture and design elements were created by the Mackintosh couple, and these were pointed out to us during the tour. This is the best place to get a sense of where and how these two artists actually lived. 

The house is open to the public via guided tours for a small admission fee. You can buy tickets and access The Mackintosh House via the Hunterian Art Gallery.

Hunterian Museum

The Hunterian Museum is the oldest public museum in Scotland, founded in 1807 by anatomist and avid collector  William Hunter . It holds a large and eclectic collection of scientific instruments, fossils, Egyptian artifacts, coins, anatomical instruments, and geological specimens. 

It also holds one of the largest exhibits on the Antonine Wall, which was a Roman wall built in the 2nd century AD along central Scotland. The Antonine Wall is much less well-known than Hadrian’s Wall as few of its fortifications are still visible.

The Hunterian Museum is located in part of George Gilbert Scott’s University buildings and is free to visit.

Note that there are also additional museum collections located at the university such as zoology and anatomy collections; however, these normally require an advanced appointment to visit as they often do not have set hours for public visits.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum 

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum holds one of the largest collections of art and objects in Scotland. There are over 20 themed galleries displaying everything from a spitfire plane to medieval armor to Impressionist paintings. This is one of the largest and best free museums in Scotland and one of the most visited attractions in Glasgow. You can easily spend 2 or 3 hours exploring the many galleries here.

If you only have time to visit one museum in Glasgow, this would be our recommendation if you are looking for a general museum as it contains a very wide range of excellent exhibits that will appeal to a range of travelers. Note that it can get a bit crowded so going near opening time can make for a more pleasant visit.

The main collection is free to visit with admission fees charged for special exhibitions. There is also a café and gift shop on site.

Glasgow Central Station tour

You can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Glasgow Central Station which is the second busiest railway station in Scotland. You get to explore some of the disused Victorian tunnels, boiler rooms, and platforms hidden below Central Station. The tour, developed primarily by Network Rail historian Paul Lyons, focuses on the history, architecture, and the social history about how the people used the station, especially during WWI.

Tour guests must wear sensible shoes, and appropriate safety gear will be provided to you before the tour. Currently all tours must be booked in advance online. 

Note that the tour requires quite a bit of walking, going up and down stairs, and walking through narrow corridors. This is a good tour for the railway enthusiast but may not appeal to the general traveler.

Riverside Museum 

T he Riverside Museum , formerly the Glasgow Museum of Transport, sits next to the River Clyde and houses a large collection of various modes of transportation from prams and skateboards to steam locomotives and rare cars.

In addition to transportation, the museum also houses historical objects and an old cobbled street area that contains shops you can explore dating from various points in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The museum won the European Museum of the Year Award in 2013 and is a great museum to explore. Admission is free.

Berthed just behind the Riverside Museum, you will find the Tall Ship , Glenlee. It is one of only a few Clyde-built sailing ships still afloat and the only one currently in the UK. The Victorian era Glenlee was built at the Bay Yard in Port Glasgow and served as a bulk cargo carrier, a sailing training vessel, and a training school before being turned into a museum.

The Tall Ship offers self-guided visits of the ship as well as speciality maritime themed events, activities, talks, and tours. The Tall Ship is free to enter for individuals and families, with a small charge for groups.

We recommend purchasing the audio guide to get the most out of your visit. Easy to combine a tour with a visit to the Riverside Museum.

The Clydeside Distillery

Glasgow was once home to over 100 whisky distilleries! Today there are two independent single malt distilleries, and both are relatively new. They are the Glasgow Distillery and The Clydeside Distillery.

Opened in 2017, The Clydeside Distillery is a whisky distillery that is open to the public for tours and tastings. The family who runs the distillery have been tied to the whisky industry for over 100 years.

The tours provide the history of whisky in Glasgow, the family history of the owners, show the whisky making process, and end with a tasting. On the current regular public tours, you get to taste a Highland, Lowland and Islay 10-year-old single malt whiskies. The Clydeside Distillery will not have its own whisky ready for a few years.

The Clydeside Distillery also a cafe which serves sandwiches, soups, and drinks, and a gift shop.

There is also a second whisky distillery in Glasgow, Glasgow Distillery , that also offers tours (although less frequently). It produced spirits such as gin and vodka, and has recently introduced its first single malt whiskies.

For more ideas on whisky, see our guide to whisky distilleries in Scotland .

Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Founded in 1817, the Glasgow Botanic Gardens have been a special green space for Glaswegians for over 100 years. Here you’ll find a collection of gardens and greenhouses, notably the large 19th century Kibble Palace glasshouse which houses a large collection of tree ferns and statues. Tours, workshops, and special events take place regularly within the gardens.

There is also a teahouse on site that serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea if you fancy something to eat or drink after your visit. The gardens are free to visit and are open year-round.

Lunchtime Theater at Oran Mor

Òran Mór is a former church in Glasgow’s West End that has been converted into two bars, two restaurants, and a nightclub. While you can come here any time for a pint or a meal, we came for the popular A Play, A Pie and A Pint which is a long-running and popular lunchtime theater. It was founded in 2004 and has been running ever since, producing about 38 new plays a year!

We saw a play called Beg Borrow Steal featuring two actresses, and before the play started we were given vouchers for one drink (beer, wine or soft drink) and one pie (meat pie or veggie quiche). It was a really enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours in the afternoon, although I would think of the pie more as a snack than a full meal as they are pretty small.

The building itself has some beautiful interiors, including a celestial ceiling mural and stained glass windows. Evening performances, including theater and live music, are also regularly held here if you are seeking nighttime entertainment.

The Tenement House

If you enjoy visiting places that appear frozen in time to a past era, then you’ll enjoy a visit to The Tenement House . This small National Trust for Scotland site allows you to see what it would have been like to live in a middle-class tenement in Glasgow in the early 20th century. Typist Agnes Toward lived in the Victorian apartment from 1911 to 1965 and much of her furniture and possessions are preserved here and presented as they were during her lifetime.

You can see a range of items from the time period, including black horsehair chairs, working gaslights, war-time memorabilia, box beds, and a coal-fired kitchen range. There is an admission fee, but it is free for those who are members of the National Trust – you can sign up here .

Scotland Street School Museum 

Scotland Street School Museum is a former school turned museum that documents what education was like in Scotland from the late 19th century to the late 20th century. There are a number of rooms set up to show what school and education was like during various periods in Scotland, as well as informational displays and artifacts.

The building itself is notable for being designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh who made the designs between 1903 and 1906. Mackintosh and the School Board of Glasgow clashed on the designs and budget, and one room in the museum displays Mackintosh’s plans and designs and you can compare them to what was actually built. An interesting place for those with a passion for either education or architecture. Admission is free.

Glasgow Science Centre & Glasgow Tower

The Glasgow Science Centre is a science museum that has three levels of hands-on and interactive exhibits designed to make learning fun. The museum is especially designed with kids and families in mind, and we were impressed by the number of interactive exhibits on biology, physics, pollution, perception, and more. In addition to the museum, there is also an IMAX theater, planetarium, and Glasgow Tower (open seasonally). The planetarium and Glasgow Tower can be visited independently of the museum.

Glasgow Tower is a free-standing 417 ft (127 meter) tower that can rotate 360 degrees and has a viewing platform near the top. It is the tallest tower in Scotland and you can get a good bird’s eye view of Glasgow from the top if you are not scared of heights!

If you are an adult interested in the science museum, I would advise to arrive early or late, or try to visit on one of the regular adult-only nights so you can have fun in the museum without the giant groups of school kids as it can get a bit chaotic. Museum also has a café and cafeteria in case you get hungry. There is an admission fee for both the museum and tower.

Sightseeing Bus or Walking Tour

A city bus tour or walking tour is a great way to get oriented to Glasgow if this is your first visit. The CitySightseeing Glasgow bus tour is a hop-on hop-off bus that runs about every 10 to 20 minutes (depending on the season) from 21 different stops and has on-board commentary.

When we rode the bus, it was only an extra £1 each to get 2-day tickets versus 1-day tickets which is obviously a great value if you are in the city for 2 days. If you buy sightseeing bus tickets, they often come with discounts such as discounted subway tickets and attraction discounts so be sure to ask about any additional benefits.

Walking tours are a great way to get an introduction to a city from a local. If you are looking for a walking tour in Glasgow there are a few options available and you can find a list of Glasgow tours here . Private tours, such as this half-day tour , are also available.

Find more Charles Rennie Mackintosh sites

Charles Rennie Mackintosh is Scotland’s most celebrated architect and designer of the 20th century. If you are a fan of Mackintosh and the several sites listed in this post are not enough to sate your appetite, you can also find other sites designed by Mackintosh in and around Glasgow such as Queen’s Cross church, Martyr’s School (not open to public, but can view exterior), Glasgow School of Art (currently undergoing restoration work), Mackintosh at the Willow tea rooms (recently restored and reopened), and the excellent  Hill House (about 30 miles from Glasgow, in Helensburgh).

The Glasgow School of Art, considered by many to be Mackintosh’s best work, has sadly suffered two destructive fires in 2014 and 2018 so much of the original work has been destroyed. It is however being rebuilt based on the original design. No re-opening date has been set.

To find out more information about lesser known Mackintosh sites and to book a guided tour of Mackintosh sites, check out information from the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Society and the Glasgow School of Art .

Seek out Glasgow’s Street Art

Glasgow has some fantastic street art. We were surprised to find so many large and interesting street murals around Glasgow, many of the pieces are relatively new and are part of the City Centre Mural Trail .

One of our favorites depicts a man holding a bird that was located near our apartment and captivated us each day as we walked by it. The large mural was painted on the building by Glasgow-based Australian street artist Sam Bates , also known as Smug, and depicts a modern-day Saint Mungo and references one of the saint’s miracles called The Bird That Never Flew where he revives a dead robin.

For some of our other many favorites murals, check out Laurence’s Glasgow street art photo essay . The majority of works are in or near the city center, although there are obviously changes over time as artworks are added or removed. You can either follow the city’s mural trail or you can just discover them as you visit the city center and let them surprise you.

Explore the Glasgow Food Scene

Glasgow has long held a reputation for being one of the least healthy cities in terms of food, a city where everything can be fried! While you can still find the infamous deep-fried Mars Bars in Glasgow (and elsewhere in Scotland), the trend in recent years has been to healthier, local, and more vegetarian friendly dishes and restaurants.

There have been several vegetarian and vegan restaurants and cafes opening in Glasgow as well as a number of independent coffee shops. I would recommend checking out local recommendations and reviews for current favorites for good eats as it depends a lot on what type of food you are craving and new places keep popping up.

We checked out a few restaurants while in the city. We had a great lunch at centrally located  Hutchesons Bar & Brasserie  which has a beautiful City Grill dining room and amazing dry-aged Scottish beef (highly recommend)! We also checked out Rogano , the oldest operating restaurant in Glasgow, and although the 1930’s restaurants is a bit stuffy and dark, it has excellent classic fish dishes and fresh seafood as well as Art Deco decor reminiscent of the Queen Mary ocean liner.

For a more relaxed dinner, we can also highly recommend Drygate Micro Brewery which had excellent appetizers, burgers, aged steaks, doughnuts, and craft beer. For Scottish cuisine (e.g., cullen skink, haggis, black pudding, Highland venison), you may want to check out the long-standing Café Gandolfi or the City Merchant .

If you are craving pizza, we can recommend Paesano Pizza , a local favorite for wood-fired artisanal pizzas. We can recommend Saint Judes for wings, American fare, and candy-flavored cocktails 

Russian food is pretty scarce in Scotland, but we can recommend  Cafe Cossachok in Glasgow. We believe it was the first (and perhaps is still the only) really Russian restaurant in Scotland. The food we had here was good and we recommend the homemade flavored vodkas!

Beer, whisky, Irn-Bru  (a bright orange carbonated soft drink), and coffee are all popular drinks to have in Glasgow. For beer, Tennent’s is a must if you haven’t tried it as the company is headquartered in Glasgow and you’ll find it served throughout the city (see earlier info about Tennent’s brewery tours). There are also local craft beers spots to try as well such as Drygate Micro Brewery.

For whisky, you’ll find Scottish whisky on the menu at a number of bars and restaurants throughout the city, and you can ask a bartender or server to help you choose if you are new to Scottish whiskies.

There are a number of local independent coffee shops popping up all over Glasgow, and a few we can recommend trying are Riverhill Coffee Bar , Papercup , and  McCune Smith (named after a famous African-American physician and abolitionist). If you are looking to purchase some coffee to take home, you may want to pick up a bag of the popular Glasgow-roasted  Dear Green beans.

For tea, we recommend making a tea reservation at Mackintosh at the Willow (217 Sauchiehall Street). This is the recently restored tea room originally designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

If you’d like to know even more about the food scene in Glasgow, you might want to do a Walking Lunch tour with Glaswegian food and travel writer Andrea Pearson. This food and history walking tour will take you through 1,000 years of Glasgow history and includes at least four food stops.

This tour is fun, informative, and excellent value for money. Andrea is also happy to give you recommendations to keep you eating well for the duration of your time in Glasgow!

Do Some Shopping in Glasgow

As people who don’t go shopping that often, we didn’t realize that Glasgow is a major shopping destination in the UK. In fact, it is the second largest retail center in the United Kingdom, second only to London! T

he main central shopping area is Glasgow’s Style Mile (roughly runs along Argyle, Buchanan, and Sauchiehall Streets) which includes independent boutiques, popular chain stores, shopping malls, designer stores, and speciality shops. The Argyll Arcade, built in 1827, is a beautiful shopping arcade which houses a number of jewelry shops as well as the city’s oldest bar Sloan’s . 

If you are a Harry Potter fan and haven’t already visited the Harry Potter shops in Edinburgh , you might want to make a stop at The Boy Wizard (49-53 Union Street). You can stock up on wands, books, chocolate frogs, scarfs, and other Potter related things here.

For unique art and artisanal products, we enjoyed looking around the Glasgow School of Art shop and The Lighthouse gift shop. Whether you are shopping for fashion, tech, souvenirs, or unique gifts, you are likely to find something that appeals in Glasgow.

Listen to Live Music in Glasgow 

Glasgow is the best place in Scotland to listen to live music and has been a launchpad for a number of musicians and bands. Music includes everything from rock to ceilidhs, and venues range from small dive bars to well-known music arenas.

To get you started, here are a list of some of Glasgow’s many live music venues: King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut , Nice N Sleazy ,  Barrowland Ballroom ,  Òran Mór ,  The Glad Café ,  O2 ABC , and the  Old Fruitmarket .

If you are looking for more classical music, you may want to check out the schedule at the   Glasgow Royal Concert Hall , which also hosts ballets, operas, musical theater, rock concerts, and other events. Check online before you go or check around once you arrive in the city to see what music events are happening during your visit!

If you are wanting to attend a bigger name concert or event, I’d recommend booking tickets before you go as popular concerts can sell out well in advance. The largest number of shows take places on Fridays and Saturdays so try to make sure your visit falls over a weekend for a wider option of evening entertainment.

Things to do in Glasgow: Beyond Central Glasgow

If you have more than a day or two in Glasgow, you may have some time to see a couple of places beyond central Glasgow. These places are all technically in Glasgow but all sit on the fringes of the city and you’ll need to take public transit, a train, or drive to reach them from central Glasgow. All are located within a 20 to 25 minute drive from the city center.

Celtic Park Stadium

Celtic Park is a football stadium (soccer for Americans) located in the Parkhead area of Glasgow. It is home ground to the Celtic Football Club which were established in 1887. It is the largest football stadium in Scotland, and is also sometime used for other events such as large concerts and the opening of the Commonwealth Games. Commonly referred to as Paradise or Parkhead by locals.

If you are a Scottish football fan, you can buy tickets to watch a game here. Or you can also take a 1-hour guided  tour of the stadium which covers the history of the club and includes visits to the boardroom, dressing room, the tunnel, the dugout, pitch (field), and more. This upgraded tour option also includes a 3-course meal in the Celtic Park Restaurant.

There is also food and drinks available on-site, and a gift shop.We haven’t been here yet but the tours get good reviews!

Note that there are four big football teams in Glasgow. The main local rival to the Celtics are the Rangers, but there is also the Partick Thistle and Queen’s Park (an amateur club). Glasgow is the best city for football lovers in Scotland and you have lots of football watching opportunities if you visit during the season.

House for an Art Lover

The House for an Art Lover is a building in Bellahouston Park that was built based on a design made by famous Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his wife Margaret MacDonald. Mackintosh submitted the design in 1901 for a German design magazine competition which asked for artist’s to submit a design for a “Haus eines Kunstfreundes” (Art Lover’s House). Although their submission was later awarded a prize, none of the proposed houses were actually built.

However, the plans were used to construct a house between 1989 and 1996. well after his death. The designs provided by Mackintosh contained a lot of details for both the exterior and interiors that enabled engineers and designers to build and design the house as a faithful interpretation of Mackintosh and his wife’s vision. It was very interesting to compare the drawings submitted by Mackintosh to the finished rooms and decorations.

The architecture and design are unconventional, particularly for the early twentieth century, and it was a rare project where Mackintosh had almost unlimited freedom regarding his artistic design. A must-visit for Mackintosh lovers.

The House for an Art Lover offers self-guided and guided tours to visitors (fee for admission) as well as hosts events related to art, design, and architecture. There is also an on-site café, gardens, and shop. You’ll need to drive to reach House for an Art Lover, or take the subway, bus, or train from central Glasgow (plus a 5 to 20 minute walk depending on the mode of public transport).

Pollok House

Pollok House is an 18th century grand country house that was the ancestral home of the Stirling Maxwell families. Today it is run by the National Trust for Scotland  and visitors can tour most of the house both upstairs and downstairs, seeing where the family, their guests, and servants would have stayed and worked. The house is furnished and contains a large art collection, notably a large Spanish painting collection which includes pieces by El Greco, Goya, Coello, and Murillo.

Sandwiches, snacks, tea, and coffee are available in the downstairs café (the former kitchen) and it is a great place to get revived after an exploration of the house and gardens.

When we visited, they were doing an Escape the Past escape room game, where visitors could use their puzzle-solving skills to try to crack a mystery in a 1-hour long game that is inspired by past real-life residents of Pollok House and is set in one of the mansion’s basement rooms. So be sure to check what’s going on before you visit as such things often need to booked in advance.

If you fancy wandering around outside, the house has an extensive garden with over 1,000 species of rhododendrons and is situated in the large Pollok County Park, often voted as one of the best parks in the UK. To reach Pollok House from central Glasgow, you will need to take public transport (bus or train) or drive.

We had a great time visiting Pollok House and would recommend spending at least 2 hours here so you have enough time to explore both the house and gardens. I would also recommend leaving some extra time for a cup of tea or light meal. If you are interested in visiting, you can check out our full article for loads of photos and details about our visit to Pollok House (and our escape room experience!).  

Burrell Collection

Sir William Burrell was a successful shipping merchant who loved to collect antiques, eventually donating a large collection of over 9,000 objects to the city of Glasgow. A museum was custom-built to house part of the vast collection in Pollock Country Park.

The Burrell Collection is one of the largest collections of art and antiquities amassed by a single collector and contains significant European works from the Late Gothic and Early Renaissance periods as well as Islamic art, Persian rugs, and a large amount of Chinese art. It contains one of the best collections of work by French artist Edgar Degas. The works are eclectic and varied, and include a large range of objects from tapestries and door arches to paintings and sculptures.

The museum also includes shops and café, admission is free. To reach the Burrell Collection from central Glasgow, you will need to take public transport (bus or train) or drive. A great museum to combine with a visit with Pollock House and a stroll through Pollock Country Park.

Cuningar Loop 

Cuningar Loop is a woodland park and path network located on the very eastern edge of Glasgow along the banks of River Clyde. It features an extensive walking and biking path network, picnic and play areas, an adventure area and bouldering park, bike skills areas, and outdoor classroom.

This relatively new green space is a great spot to visit if you are seeking some outdoor fun on a nice weather day. Mostly frequented by local families.

The park is about a 15 minute drive away from central Glasgow. You can also take a bus to this area of the city.

Holmwood House

Holmwood House  is a Greek Revival villa built for paper magnate James Couper and his family in 1857 to 1858 by Scottish architect Alexander Thomson . Holmwood is considered Thompson’s finest domestic building, and it is believed to have potentially influenced future major architects like Frank Lloyd Wright. The house passed to other families and eventually to the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions. The Sisters lived in the house and used the grounds along with an adjacent villa as a school.

Although subsequent owners made changes to the house and painted over many of the original elements, the building is being restored back to its original style by the National Trust for Scotland. Here you’ll find cupolas, columns, high ceilings, friezes, and symmetry. The dining room is one of the most impressive rooms with friezes depicting scenes from The Iliad and tapered doorways to give it a temple-like effect. There is also a Victorian kitchen garden and small coffee area.

The property will be a long-term restoration and conservation project so it’s good to check ahead before you visit. An admission fee is charged, but free entry for National Trust members . Located about 5 miles outside of central Glasgow, you’ll need to drive, bike, or take a train or bus to reach Holmwood House.

Things to do in Glasgow: Day Trips from Glasgow

Run out of things to do in Glasgow? If you have more time in Glasgow and want to venture further afield, there are even more things to do in Glasgow and its surrounds. If you are looking for a day trip or quick overnight trip, our top recommendations depending on your interests would be to visit a national park, take a trip to Edinburgh, or go on a whisky tasting tour.

We have a guide to the top day trips from Glasgow which highlights a number of day trip ideas, but we’ll highlight a few of them below.

A short drive from Glasgow, you’ll find a beautiful scenic area called Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, Scotland’s capital, the National Museum of Rural Life, and some popular whisky distilleries. 

Get out of the city for some natural beauty at Loch Lomond

If you are looking for scenic landscapes or outdoor adventure, you might consider a day trip to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Here you can go cruising on a lake in a steamship, rent a canoe or kayak, spend a day fishing, have fun at an aerial adventure park, or go climbing or biking.

If you enjoy hiking, there are a number of short and moderate hiking paths to enjoy here, and many popular long distance paths such as the West Highland Way  and The Three Lochs Way run through here. If you are interested in spending the night you might want to find a cozy B&B, cabin, or farm stay to fully enjoy your time away from the city. You can easily spend a couple of days in this area.

The southern shores of Loch Lomond are about 25 miles from Glasgow, and the area can be reached by car, train, bus, or seaplane. To find out more you can read our 2 Day Glasgow & Loch Lomond itinerary and check out the Loch Lomond tourism website .

Visit the National Museum of Rural Life

The National Museum of Rural Life is in East Kilbride. Located here is a museum as well as a 1950’s working farm. The museum covers the history of farming and rural life over the past 300 years and contains artifacts, a video, and lots of farming machinery. There is also a children’s area and bee hives here.

You can also visit the working farm which is a 10 minute walk or 10 minute tractor-drawn hay wagon ride away. Here you’ll find an farm house you can tour, barns, a garden, and several farm animals. Animals include cattle (Angus, Ayreshire, and Highland), Tamworth pigs, chickens, sheep, and Clydesdale horses. It seems from our visit that the farm is a popular stop for local families. Note that the paths and areas around the farm are often muddy so wearing comfortable boots is recommended.

The museum also has a Shielings Café offering food, drinks, and afternoon tea, and a museum gift shop.

Entrance is free for National Museums of Scotland and National Trust members , although there is an extra charge for special events.

The museum is located about a 25 minute drive from central Glasgow. It is also possible to take a bus from central Glasgow to a spot within a short walking distance of the museum.

Visit Edinburgh

Both Glasgow and Edinburgh deserve at least 2 full days of time, but if you can’t overnight in Edinburgh, it is worth a day trip. Edinburgh has a number of iconic views, an amazing castle, great museums, nice green spaces, and good restaurants as well as all the trappings of a cosmopolitan capital city.

You can catch the train or one of the regular Citylink shuttle buses  that run between central Glasgow and Edinburgh, and if you arrive early you should have time to visit several sites in Edinburgh on a day trip. You can also book a private transfer to Edinburgh.

For a first time visit, I’d recommend walking along the Royal Mile between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, stopping to visit attractions as they appeal and then perhaps making a short detour to the National Museum of Scotland which is a fantastic free museum. You may also want to start your visit with a walking tour or sightseeing bus tour for a good overview of the city.

To get the most out of your visit, you can check our guide to the top things to do in Edinburgh which should help you decide what you want to see and do. If you are visiting in late July or August, check out our guide to summer festivals in Edinburgh as the city hosts 6 different festivals during the busy month of August!

Go Whisky Tasting

Most people want to visit a whisky distillery while in Scotland, of course in Glasgow you have The Clydeside Distillery and Glasgow Distillery as well as whisky walking tours of the city.

But if you are looking for more distilleries, you can easily do a day trip from Glasgow to visit some. Probably the most famous one nearby is Glengoyne and they offer tours, tasting experiences, and a fully stocked gift shop.

Others in the area that offer tours to the public include  Auchentoshan in Clydebank, Deanston in Doune (near Doune Castle), and Tullibardine in Blackford. 

If you don’t have a car or plan to do tastings, you should consider either taking a tour like this Rabbie’s half-day bus tour that visits both Loch Lomond and Glengoyne Distillery or hiring a driver. 

So there is our list of things to do in Glasgow Scotland! Have you been to Glasgow? If so, any favorites among the above or places you’d add to this list? If you haven’t visited yet, which of these Glasgow attractions would make it on your Glasgow itinerary?

As always, feel free to ask us any questions you may have about things to do in Glasgow or planning a trip to Scotland!

**Disclosure: We partnered with People Make Glasgow who helped us plan the logistics of our trip to Glasgow, and who also covered some of our meals and entry into local attractions in order for us to share our experiences as travel writers. However, as always, this article contains only our own honest thoughts and opinions. You can read more in our  Ethics Code about how we accept work.**

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Carie Post author

March 31, 2022 at 1:24 am

Wow! Thank you for such a comprehensive list of things to do in Glasgow. My husband and I will be travelling in the summer of 2023. It sounds like you suggest a couple days in Edinburgh and a few days in Glasgow? What would you suggest to a couple that hasn’t been to Scotland?

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

March 31, 2022 at 4:36 am

Yes, both Glasgow and Edinburgh have a number of attractions. I would say that most tourists prefer Edinburgh over Glasgow, but both have a number of attractions and both have a different feel.

It really depends on how much time you have in Scotland, but if planning to visit Edinburgh and Glasgow and had 1 week. I’d probably suggest 4 nights in Edinburgh, allowing at least 2 full days to do things in Edinburgh and one day trip from Edinburgh, and then 3 nights in Glasgow with 2 days to explore the city and one day trip. But it really depends on your time and what you enjoy doing/seeing.

Hope that helps and happy to answer further questions as you plan your trip!

Best, Jessica

Elena Gilbert Post author

March 9, 2022 at 3:25 am

Your Scotland posts are the most fabulous all of the time! There’s so much to see and do in Glasgow, I’d have to remain a month to do everything! Stuck as need might arise to go.

March 9, 2022 at 7:35 am

Glad you enjoyed our blog about things to do in Glasgow. If you have any questions about traveling to Glasgow or Scotland in general, feel free to ask!

Alena Post author

January 14, 2022 at 2:30 am

Nice blog is really fabulous information about Glasgow, can’t wait to visit!

January 14, 2022 at 3:43 am

Great, glad it has been helpful, just let us know if you have any questions as you plan your trip to Glasgow!

Cat Post author

January 24, 2020 at 4:20 am

I’m not a tourist per se, I’m from Loch Lomond so visit Glasgow often. My friend and I were searching for fun things to do in Glasgow and came across this article. Wow, such a great list. Although I’ve been to some of the places, there are some great recommendations that we will definitely try. Glad to see you listed the Glasgow Central Tour, Paul the station historian is my cousin and I’ve done the tour twice. It’s great for some social history of Glasgow.

January 25, 2020 at 8:26 am

Hi Cat, Thanks so much for taking the time to write and so glad you found our things to do in Glasgow post helpful, especially as a local 😉 Lots of great things to do in the city and yes, we enjoyed the Glasgow Central station tour with Paul. Hope you try a couple of new things on your next visit to Glasgow 😉 Best, Jessica

Matt Post author

December 6, 2019 at 3:05 am

Wow, such a comprehensive break down of the Glasgow things that are worth seeing and doing! This is so helpful for planning out our trip. We have got 42 days planned in Scotland, so working out how to break it all down at the moment!

December 6, 2019 at 5:11 am

Glad you enjoyed our guide to things to do in Glasgow. Definitely recommend spending at least a few days in the city during your trip around Scotland. It is probably the city we feel that is most “Scottish” and we always enjoy our time there. You can see most of the sites in Glasgow in a few days, but it can also be a great base to do some day trip or day tours from such as into Loch Lomond National Park, Ayrshire, Stirling, Oban, etc.

Just let us know if you have any questions as you plan your trip to Glasgow and the rest of Scotland!

December 12, 2019 at 2:09 am

Thanks Jessica! By the way, I’m not sure if your notify by email about comment replies is working – I didn’t get one. I just happened to pull up this page again and saw you had replied.

What is it that makes it so “Scottish”? It’s our first visit to Scotland, and we plan on visiting my clan lands and castle while we are in the area – Hunterston in Ayrshire.

Glasgow strikes me (from our research so far) as being the most interesting combination of interesting history and modern ingenuity.

December 12, 2019 at 5:04 am

Yes, replies are not automatic, you have to opt-in by checking the box to get them when you post your comment. It does not look like you selected that, I changed it for this one for you so you should get a notification. So hopefully you will.

Each of the Scottish cities have a different feel, you just have to spend some time in each to really get that feel I guess. The tourist favorite is definitely Edinburgh and you’ll no doubt see why, the Old Town and New Town are really amazing to see in terms of architectural beauty and history. Glasgow has a big industrial past which really shaped the city. The cities are both really different and definitely recommend visiting both of them. Aberdeen is also worth some time if you enjoy cities, as it is again, really different from Edinburgh and Glasgow.

We always enjoy our time in Ayrshire, is it primarily rural and laid back and I am sure you’ll enjoy learning about your distant relatives. If you are a Robert Burns fan (or interested in learning about him), there are several places associated with him in the region. If you only do one, I’d recommend at least a stopping at the Burns Birthplace Museum (includes the family cottage where he was born). There is also some castles like Culzean Castle (nice gardens and views as well), the maritime museum, a number of golf courses, and some nice coastal scenery. You can also pop over to the Isle of Arran if you wish.

Ashley LiBetti Post author

October 26, 2019 at 6:56 pm

This is such great information! Thanks for taking the time to put it together and share.

Any suggestions for where two Americans should eat Thanksgiving dinner in or around Glasgow this year?!

October 27, 2019 at 7:22 am

Glad you are finding our Glasgow guide helpful! Yes, there aren’t going to be many choices for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner in Glasgow, but I would recommend checking out the Hard Rock Cafe in Glasgow for either lunch of dinner. It is centrally located (along the “Style Mile) and easy to find. They typically do a full Thanksgiving meal offer with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, roasted vegetables, pumpkin pie, etc. on Thanksgiving Day;-) Just be sure to book it in advance as I think you probably need a reservation for special menus.

Hope that helps! Jessica

Steve Glickman Post author

July 31, 2019 at 8:57 am

Will be visiting Glasgow OR Edinburgh in mid Sept. for three days Please advise which city has the most older neighborhoods, the way the world used to be, not the architecture, but the people on the streets, in the shops. I desire to travel in time, not space

August 1, 2019 at 6:01 am

Hi Steve, I think you may have to look pretty hard to find an old style of life in either city as both are pretty modern now despite the old architecture. The city of Edinburgh in particular has a very cosmopolitan population. But Edinburgh has the older medieval parts that are better preserved but this is primarily a tourist and business area. If you are looking more for which may be more traditionally Scottish and to spend more time talking to locals, I would choose Glasgow over Edinburgh as it is much easier to chat with residents and feels less touristy.

If you want to see how people used to live in the past in Scotland, you might want to make a trip up to the Highland Folk Museum in the Cairngorms National Park. It is an excellent open-air museum filled with old homes, shops, churches, schools, etc. and one you can spend a full day exploring as it is very larger and there are usually a number of demonstrations taking place, especially on weekends.

Jan McCreadie Post author

May 25, 2018 at 9:10 am

Interesting places to visit when I next visit Glasgow.

May 25, 2018 at 9:25 am

Hi Jan, Glad you found some new places to visit on your next trip to Glasgow! There are many things to do in Glasgow and many are often overlooked by visitors to the city. Best, Jessica

Steph Meek Post author

December 18, 2017 at 4:32 am

I loved this article on Glasgow it is a great city,

We are a small coffee shop called The Steamie Coffee Roasters on Argyle Street, would you be able to feature our shop in your article? We have lots of positive reviews on google and think it would be a good addition.

Our website is https://thesteamie.co.uk if your interested.

December 18, 2017 at 9:26 am

Hi Steph, Glad you enjoyed our guide to things to do in Glasgow! Thanks for letting us know about your coffee shop and we would be happy to stop by on our next visit! Best, Jessica

Anthony Post author

September 20, 2017 at 1:46 pm

Super helpful tips for visiting Glasgow. I have never been to Scotland, but you make it seem a really awesome place to visit. Trying out local cuisine is one thing that will make me want to visit even more.

Thanks for sharing great tips.

September 20, 2017 at 2:14 pm

Hi Anthony, Thanks so much and I hope you get a chance to visit Scotland soon, it is an awesome country and Glasgow is a great city to visit. Just let us know if you have any questions about Glasgow as you plan your visit. Best, Jessica

Travis Post author

August 23, 2017 at 11:45 am

This truly is the ultimate guide to Glasgow. this is nice article. Keep up with good work and thanks for sharing.

August 23, 2017 at 12:11 pm

Thanks Travis, glad you enjoyed our guide to Glasgow. If you are traveling in Scotland, we have lots of other Scotland content that might be helpful as well! Best, Jessica

Helen farmer Post author

August 7, 2017 at 9:29 pm

You are really an expert blogger. Your picture and content are very unique and interesting. My friend jimmy suggest your Blog to read. I read some post on your blog. Many time I listen to Glasgow Scotland name and that is wonderful. That is the beautiful place for everyone. I will follow your blog and keep reading.I wish you keep writing the wonderful and interesting post.

August 8, 2017 at 5:55 am

Hi Helen, Glad you found our blog, and glad you enjoyed our post on Glasgow Scotland! We are happy to have you as a new reader 😉 Best, Jessica

Michele {Malaysian Meanders} Post author

July 31, 2017 at 9:49 pm

This truly is the ultimate guide. I was going to list which places I wanted to see, but the list got too long. We had contemplated visiting when we were in England last summer, but we would have only had a very brief time in Glasgow. I decided to delay it for some future trip when we could take our time exploring. Based on this list, I’m not sure that even 5 days would be enough.

August 1, 2017 at 6:04 am

Hi Michele, Glad you want to visit so many of these spots in Glasgow, I think a lot of people are surprised there is so much to do there! I think you could see a lot in 3-4 days as most places are within walking distance or a short bus ride. Even the spots outside central Glasgow (e.g., Pollock House) are easy to get to if you have a car or take the bus. If you haven’t been to Scotland before, I’d recommend at least a week as Edinburgh has lots of attractions, scenic spots, and day trip possibilities as well. Do let us know if you are headed this way! ~ Jessica

Rob+Ann Post author

July 31, 2017 at 1:39 pm

Wow – Glasgow Cathedral is just gorgeous! The city has long been on our To Do list, and we love the suggestions in this guide! Definitely pinning this for later; it’s such a great resource. Thanks for putting it together, for all of the great photos!

August 1, 2017 at 5:51 am

Hi Rob & Ann, Yes, Glasgow Cathedral is an amazing cathedral – we had planned to just spend 10 minutes there to see it and grab a photo but ended up wandering around for quite a while inside and had to leave earlier than we wanted as we didn’t realize how large it was and how much of it you can explore (e.g., choir, crypt, chapels). There is a lot to do just around the Cathedral as well (we stayed a couple minute walk away) including two free museums (both have small gardens), the necropolis (peaceful for walks, has nice views), and a couple of coffee shops. The sightseeing bus also stops right in front of the cathedral and Drygate Brewery Co and the Tennents Brewery are also within a 10 minute walk. ~ Jessica

Stephanie Post author

July 31, 2017 at 6:37 am

Love the wonderful 25 things to do in Glasgow. Great photos. Scotland is on my bucket-list and I will definitely have to add Glasgow. I pinned this for later use. Thanks for sharing!

July 31, 2017 at 12:42 pm

Hi Stephanie, A lot of tourists miss Glasgow, which I can understand as most only spend a 1-3 days in Scotland and generally head to Edinburgh and the Highlands which are fabulous too. But I think getting away from these spots for a few days to explore other great cities like Glasgow or rural spots like Loch Lomond, North Coast 500, or the Scottish Borders is really rewarding. Scotland has so much to offer and we are often disappointed to hear that people only head to the same few spots, so if you can highly recommend spending at least a week in Scotland (you can easily spend a month!). Best, Jessica

Hilary Post author

July 30, 2017 at 11:14 am

This list is AMAZING! I visited Glasgow last summer, and loved it! I wish I’d had this list then… I definitely hope to go back one day!

July 31, 2017 at 12:37 pm

Thanks Hilary, glad you were able to visit Glasgow last year and hopefully you’ll get to return to experience more of the attractions Glasgow has to offer! Best, Jessica

Hadas Aharon Post author

July 30, 2017 at 3:16 am

Glasgow Scotland looks like a great city to visit!

July 30, 2017 at 7:11 am

Hi Hadas, Yes, there are lots of things to do in Glasgow and I hope you get a chance to visit someday! Best, Jessica

Anda Post author

July 29, 2017 at 1:22 pm

You make Glasgow look like a million bucks, Jessica. After reading your post I feel a trip to Scotland would be just the right thing to do. Even if the weather doesn’t turn out to be too nice, there is still a lot to see and do inside in Glasgow, like visiting the the churches, the Tenement House, shopping or eating in one of those great restaurants. #TheWeeklyPostcard

July 30, 2017 at 7:10 am

Hi Anda, Yes, I think with Scotland you just have to be prepared for it to be gray and rainy, and then pleasantly surprised when it is a nice sunny day! We always try to mix indoor with outdoor activities which is really easy to do in both Glasgow and Edinburgh since there is so much to do indoors in both cities. Best, Jessica

Gabriela Post author

July 29, 2017 at 10:18 am

Your pictures are to die for and honestly, almost an hour ago, I decided I want to go to Scotland as one of my next trips this year. Your post is very handy and I don’t need to do much research now! Thanks for sharing.

July 30, 2017 at 7:09 am

Hi Gabriela, Thanks, glad you love our photos of Glasgow. Scotland is a great place to visit and we have loads of information on both Independent Travel Cats and Finding the Universe of travel advice, tours reviews, and destination guides to help you get started on planing your trip to Scotland. Do feel free to get in touch if you have any questions! Best, Jessica

Ruth | Tanama Tales Post author

July 28, 2017 at 11:20 pm

Pardon my ignorance but I didn’t know Glasgow is Scotland’s biggest city. I am amazed at the long list of things to do in the city. I kept reading and thinking: “I want to do that.” I said it like fifteen times. I would like to stay 4 days on the city. Two to do the attractions and two for day trips. Thanks for the detailed info!

July 29, 2017 at 5:31 am

Hi Ruth, Yes, I think many people assume Edinburgh is the largest city as the capital and the one city most people can name in Scotland, but Glasgow is actually the largest and has the largest economy and retail center in Scotland. Lots of things to do in Glasgow and I think four days is a very reasonable amount of time – two for central Glasgow and two to explore some of the region like Loch Lomond (beautiful place, especially on a sunny day) and go whisky tasting 😉 Best, Jessica

Michelle | michwanderlust Post author

July 28, 2017 at 8:12 pm

Thanks for this really packed guide to Glasgow (and I mean that in a good way!). It’s so comprehensive! I only visited Glasgow for a couple of hours (and only managed to see the university and walk around a bit as I was visiting some friends there), but I remember it as an industrial city which wasn’t as pretty as Edinburgh. Surprised to see the number of beautiful spaces in Glasgow you’ve shared – the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, as well as the Botanic Gardens, look gorgeous. Sounds like a second trip to Glasgow is in order!

July 29, 2017 at 5:25 am

Hi Michelle, Yes, Glasgow was a prosperous city known for its shipbuilding industry and manufacturing and for trade because of its port. Today, although there are still a couple active shipyards, the main industries are things like business, finance, retail, and tourism. The city has some great Victorian and art nouveau architecture but unlike Edinburgh they are not nicely arranged along streets like in Edinburgh’s Old Town & New Town so it does not have the postcard picture appeal of Edinburgh. We love Edinburgh (we live next to it) but Glasgow really appeals to us because it is not so touristy and there are lots of great spots and beautiful places (like you noticed) if you search them out. On the outskirts of the city, you have amazing green spaces like Pollock Country Park, voted one of the best parks in Europe and also contains Pollock House and The Burrell Collection. Glasgow and Edinburgh are very different and I think both are worth a visit for those coming to Scotland! Best, Jessica

Anisa Post author

July 28, 2017 at 4:11 pm

What a great list! Now I really want to go to Glasgow. The Modern Art Museum and the Tenement look really interesting. I also want to try the haggis and black pudding at Café Gandolf. I am pinning this so I will have all your recommendations when I do make it there.

July 29, 2017 at 5:14 am

Hi Anisa, I am surprised you haven’t been to Glasgow yet, but you will need to visit on your next trip to Scotland. Very different city than Edinburgh. Cafe Gandolfi is an interesting place with an Italian name but serves Scottish food – we met the owner and tried the haggis and black pudding there actually – definitely a good spot for both (they also own a fish restaurant with same name on the street). But there is a lot of non-traditional food spots all over the city that cook up some delicious food made with local ingredients. Best, Jessica

Lolo Post author

July 28, 2017 at 3:02 pm

Your posts are always the most thorough! There’s soooo much to see and do in this post, I’d need to stay a month to do it all! Pinned as we need to go! Thanks for linking up with #TheWeeklyPostcard!

July 29, 2017 at 5:08 am

Hi Lolo, Haha, you know me, yes I love to be thorough and I don’t think may people would want to cram all these activities into one visit! We try to cover all the main attractions so readers can choose their favorites rather than trying to tell people what the best few places are since different travelers will have very different interests. Glasgow is a great place for those looking for art and cultural activities but equally great for those craving pubs and live music (best music scene in Scotland). Do let us know whenever you make it over to Scotland! Best, Jessica

Esther Post author

July 28, 2017 at 1:49 pm

Wow, what an amazing and huge guide to Glasgow. This city has been on my radar for a while now and I really want to go and visit. Thank you for all the advice!

July 29, 2017 at 5:01 am

You’re welcome Esther, and yes I think we have given you plenty of things to do in Glasgow when you get a chance to visit 😉 Best, Jessica

Wendy Post author

July 28, 2017 at 12:41 pm

Scotland is on my list. Only the weather is stopping me. Glasgow looks like a great place to stay for a few days. Love your post!

July 29, 2017 at 4:59 am

Hi Wendy, Yes, Glasgow is a great stop on a Scotland itinerary and glad you liked our post. As someone who lives in Scotland, yes the weather can be bad, but it is rarely so bad that you can’t go out and sightsee. I would probably avoid winter and visit during Spring/Summer and just bring some layers, a waterproof jacket, and some rain gear and you’ll be fine. The weather is fickle, sometimes we have a beautiful sunny day in February and a cold rainy day in August, so just packing well can really make a big difference in your experience along with having a good attitude and expecting some rain! Best, Jessica

Deb Parkes Post author

July 28, 2017 at 12:22 am

This is the best guide to Glasgow I’ve ever read! Been there many times and now we have even more places to see! Just bought a holiday home on the Isle of Bute which is only 1 hour from Glasgow! So island life and city life in one! Bute is a lovely island with lots to do. Have a trip there!

July 28, 2017 at 12:28 pm

Hi Deb, So happy to hear you enjoy our Glasgow guide, especially from someone who lives in the area! We have never been to the Isle of Bute so will have to add it to our list of places in Scotland. We have been here for 1.5 years now and there are still so many places we haven’t visited! Best, Jessica

Seana Turner Post author

July 25, 2017 at 5:46 am

Wow – I had no idea. I didn’t even have Glasgow on my radar, but I think it would be great to be there. Scotland is on my bucket list, so I’ll be back to this post. Definitely would enjoy climbing that circular stairway! I better not do the whiskey tasting, though… could get ugly:)

July 25, 2017 at 10:28 am

Hi Seana, Yes, Glasgow is a great city. It doesn’t have the postcard appeal of Edinburgh with its Old Town & Castle but it is a fun city with lots to do. We enjoyed the people, the history & museums, the street art, the food & drink, nightlife, and found it easy to get around. Not to mention so many of the attractions are free! We are already looking forward to returning and doing a few of the things we didn’t have time for on our last visit like the Glasgow Central Station tour. I’ve been on several whisky tours now but don’t really enjoy whisky, but Laurence does so win-win for him as he gets my samples 😉 Jessica

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With a disarming blend of sophistication and earthiness, Scotland's biggest city has evolved over the last couple of decades to become one of Britain's most intriguing metropolises.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Glasgow Cathedral

Glasgow Cathedral has a rare timelessness. The dark, imposing interior conjures up medieval might and can send a shiver down the spine. It's a shining…

Riverside Museum

This visually impressive modern museum at Glasgow Harbour owes its striking curved forms to late British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid. A transport museum…

Mackintosh House

Attached to the Hunterian Art Gallery, this is a reconstruction of the first home that Charles Rennie Mackintosh bought with his wife, noted designer…

Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum

A magnificent sandstone building, this grand Victorian cathedral of culture is a fascinating and unusual museum, with a bewildering variety of exhibits…

Glasgow Science Centre

This brilliant science museum will keep the kids entertained for hours (that's middle-aged kids, too!). It brings science and technology alive through…

Glasgow School of Art

In 2018, Charles Rennie Mackintosh's greatest building was gearing up for reopening after a devastating 2014 fire when, unbelievably, another blaze…

Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre

This extraordinary mechanical theatre is located at the Trongate 103 arts centre. Russian sculptor and mechanic Eduard Bersudsky, now resident in Scotland…

St Mungo's Museum of Religious Life & Art

Set in a reconstruction of the bishop's palace that once stood in the cathedral forecourt, this museum audaciously attempts to capture the world's major…

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Things to do in Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland – a bustling and unique city on the Scottish Mainland that seamlessly combines a cosmopolitan outlook with a warm and welcoming atmosphere!

This cultural hub is filled with iconic landmarks that tell the story of Glasgow’s vibrant past and progressive present – from Victorian to art nouveau architecture , art-filled museums to wonderful outdoorsy green spaces , and colourful nightlife to unique food and drink spots.

In a city with so much to offer, it is easy to be overwhelmed with the most important Glasgow attractions.

That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate list of all of the best things to do in Glasgow, Scotland, to make sure you can enjoy the attractions that match your travelling interests in this special city.

Pollok Country Park & Pollok House

Pollok Country Park has something for everyone if you’re looking for things to do in Glasgow!

Nature lovers can enjoy the greenery, scenery and tranquillity; photographers will get incredible snaps of the lush flora and wildlife, adventurists can embark on one of many mountain biking trails; children can make the most of the play park and the open spaces; couples can indulge in a romantic riverside picnic; and

Art enthusiasts and history buffs will have their share of spoils with a stop at the famous Burrell Collection and a tour of Pollok House, an amazing art collection by Sir William Burrell that shows off a wide range of cultural artworks, including Chinese and Islamic art and one of the finest collections of Spanish paintings in Britain.

Pollok Country Park is not only a Green Flag park, but it was awarded the titles of Britain’s Best Park and Europe’s Best Park in 2007 and 2008, respectively. Needless to say, this park is a must-see in Glasgow!

Glasgow Botanic Gardens & Kibble Palace

For those who appreciate green spaces in a city, the Glasgow Botanic Gardens will not disappoint.

Not only is entrance free to all of the gardens and glasshouses but while at the botanic gardens, you can also visit the famous Kibble Palace and follow various self-led trails for children and adults alike, displaying trees, birds, unique plants and colourful flowers.

Kibble Palace was designed by former curator John Kibble and is home to the national collection of tree ferns. It stands next to a lovely tea room with a beautiful view of the gardens, showing off the natural beauty of Glasgow, Scotland.

The Lighthouse

In the heart of Glasgow, you can find the Lighthouse visitor centre, exhibition space, and venue. It’s the premier location for Glasweigan creatives to come together and collaborate. You could almost say that it’s a ‘beacon’ for new and innovative ideas.

The Lighthouse has three stories with a permanent display of amazing art, as well as a few temporary exhibitions that focus on the role of architecture in our lives. As the stories continue, you can learn about sustainable practices that surround art and architecture or grab a bite to eat at the Doocot Cafe.

The Lighthouse is Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture and one of the best museums and visitor centres you can see during your time in Glasgow, so be sure to set aside some time to get clued up about architecture.

Glasgow Cathedral & The Necropolis

Can you imagine what the oldest cathedral in mainland Scotland is like?

Glasgow Cathedral is both that and the oldest building in Glasgow! This historic monument is next to the Necropolis, a Victorian garden cemetery on a hill offering a variety of architecture and sculptures.

With both the Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis being free to visit, travellers can enjoy walking tours at their own pace, experiencing the Gothic architecture, walking by Glasgow City Council, and interesting tombs and history that these icons of Scotland represent.

People’s Palace

A trip to Glasgow doesn’t get more Glaswegian than a visit to the People’s Palace.

Through historic artefacts, artworks, photographic and video evidence, and interactive digital displays, you can discover the story of Glasgow and its people – how the city came about and how its residents have lived and changed over the years. Social history at its finest!

Embrace your inner Glaswegian at the People’s Palace in Glasgow, Scotland.

Do a Brewery or Distillery Tour

A tour of a Glasgow-based brewery or distillery is multi-faceted.

On one hand, you get to find out how your choice of tipple is made. On the other hand, you can buy a bottle or two to take home and enjoy long after your travels are over, to sip on as you reminisce on your time in Glasgow.

While many big names are found in other regions, there’s just something special about an inner-city brewery or distillery, making a tour like this one of the top things to do in Glasgow, Scotland.

Drygate Brewery

Drygate Brewery has a beer for every level of enthusiast – from beginner to beer buff.

A tour of the brewery will give you an incredible insight into what goes into producing their fine range of craft beer. While visiting, you can also enjoy a beer and food pairing while overlooking the brewery at the on-site brasserie.

Please note: As of 28 February, tours are not being conducted. If tours have commenced once again, give us a nudge , and we’ll remove this notice.

The Clydeside Distillery

The Clydeside Distillery on the banks of the River Clyde will be at the top of the list of things to do in Glasgow for any whisky lover.

Known for their delicate Lowland single malt scotch whisky, a tour at this scenic distillery promises an immersive journey including a guided whisky tasting, a story-telling of the history of the distillery and the role it has played in Glasgow’s whisky tradition, and much more!

Our personal favourite is the chocolate and whisky tour, which pairs decadent chocolate and Clydeside’s finest drams.

Tennent’s Wellpark Brewery

Home to one of the biggest and most loved beers in Scotland, Tennent’s Brewery is a jewel in Glasgow’s crown!

The tour includes a walk-through of the heritage centre and of the current brewery processes, as well as a fresh pint , poured straight out of the famous copper tanks. Other tours you can book in conjunction with a Tennent’s brewery tour include bike, music and Celtic Park stadium tours.

Glasgow Distillery Company

Referring to themselves as contemporary urban distillers, Glasgow Distillery Company is also the first new independent single malt whisky distillery in Glasgow in over 100 years!

Let heritage and progress blend together as you explore their wide and award-winning range of spirits, including both single malt and blended whisky, gin, vodka and spiced rum.

Needless to say, there is something for everyone at this authentically Glaswegian distillery.

Please note: As of 28 February 2022, physical tours have been replaced with virtual tours. If this has changed, give us a nudge , and we’ll remove this notice.

Wester Distillery

A charming microdistillery with a knack for producing no-nonsense spirits, Wester Distillery is a must-do in Glasgow for all those with rum as their chosen tipple.

With flavours that range from coffee and chocolate to pineapple and spiced rum, this makes for one of the most unique attractions in Glasgow, Scotland.

Book a tour to learn how they produce their rum and enjoy a complimentary sample and cocktail masterclass.

Glasgow’s West End Whisky Tour

If you can’t quite choose between the options above, why not do the renowned West End Whisky Tour, which will walk you through some of the best-hidde n gem bars in town?

In under three hours, you will learn both about the city and about whisky culture, visiting four of the coolest bars and tasting a selection of truly unique whisky along the way.

These tours are one of the top things to do in Glasgow because they allow you to embrace what Scotland is so famous for while doing it the Glasgow way.

Explore Glasgow’s History, Arts & Culture

In this special cultural hub, history is on display as much as the city’s progressive nature.

Finding a museum in Glasgow, Scotland, is as easy as finding an espresso in Italy. And so is finding exceptional art and architecture!

Charles Rennie Mackintosh is a name that every Glaswegian will know, as he is credited with much of Glasgow’s most iconic architectural works – so in your quest for the city’s most authentic historical, artistic and cultural records, you are sure to get more than acquainted with Mr Mackintosh.

Have a look at some of the best places to go in Glasgow for the art lover or history buff.

Hunterian Art Gallery & Museum

The Hunterian Art Gallery and Museum was initially established after anatomist and physician William Hunter bequeathed his collection to the University of Glasgow.

Today, the Hunterian Museum is not only the oldest museum in Scotland, but it is also completely free to visit and has grown to include the Hunterian Art Gallery and the Mackintosh House – a replica of the home of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his wife, Margarate MacDonald.

A visit to the Hunterian Museum and Hunterian Art Gallery promises an unparalleled insight into the history of Glasgow and its icons like James McNeill Whistler and Antonine Wall. It’s an intellectually stimulating addition to your list of things to do in Glasgow, Scotland with one of the largest collections in Scotland.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

If it’s quantity and variety along with intrigue and enlightening discoveries that you’re after, then a must-see Glasgow is the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Kelvingrove Park.

The magnificent building is one of the most popular free attractions in Glasgow and in Scotland, offering something completely different to the Hunterian Museum. The gallery to 22 themed galleries boasting works by Rembrandt, Monet, Gauguin, Renoir, and even Salvador Dali. If you’re a fan of Scottish colourists and French impressionists, this place is for you!

In addition to fine art, there are natural history collections that will educate and delight. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum Glasgow has it all!

Street Level Photoworks

If Glasgow’s past doesn’t interest you as much as its present, then a visit to Street Level Photoworks should do the trick!

With free entry, this artistic haven was founded in 1989 and has been providing visitors with opportunities to engage with the distinctive local photography talent of the Scottish city ever since. Hosting everything from workshops and exhibitions to talks and a variety of other events and popular attractions, you could add this to your to-do list every time you visit Glasgow and see something different each time.

The Scottish Football Museum

While Glasgow may be divided between green and blue based on their world-famous football clubs, at the Scottish Football Museum , you’ll learn everything there is to know about where Scotland fits in the history of the beautiful game.

For example, did you know that the first ever international football match officially recognised by FIFA took place in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1872? It was between England and Scotland and was watched by 4000 spectators and ended in a nil-nil draw.

Immerse yourself in the Scottish Football Museum to discover a little-known perspective on footballing history.

Mackintosh Walking Tour

If you haven’t already realised, Charles Rennie Mackintosh holds a great place in Glasgow’s heart – past, present and future.

Swap the indoor museum feeling for something more o n the ground with the enchanting Mackintosh Walking Tour, one of the top things to do in Glasgow, Scotland. Enjoy the feeling of wonder as you wander the streets of a city shaped by a designer, architect and artist like no other.

Your expert guide will help you explore the city attractions with a new lens, showing you what to see in Glasgow to really get to know the foundation on which the arts and culture of the Scottish city are built on.

Gallery of Modern Art

If you’re less interested in early history and more interested in artworks originating around the 20th century, you will enjoy a visit to the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) on Buchanan Street.

Not only is this the most visited gallery in Scotland, GoMA is located in the heart of the city and certainly shows off the heart of both Glasgow and the rest of the world through contemporary art. The Gallery is housed in the Royal Exchange Square, an impressive Neoclassical building with gorgeous architecture.

Don’t miss the statue of the Duke of Wellington outside the gallery – usually wearing a traffic cone hat, courtesy of the people of Glasgow.

St. Mungo Museum Of Religious Life & Art

While this museum may be named after Glasgow’s patron saint , credited with introducing Scotland to Christianity in the 6th century, its focus is more on art and lifestyle than faith.

Located next to the famous Glasgow Cathedral, here you can enjoy a tour that takes you on a journey through an impressive collection of displays, artworks and artefacts representing the story of culture and religion, promoting understanding and respect between people of all faiths and no faith. The grounds are also home to Britain’s first-ever Zen garden!

Nothing encompasses the Glaswegian spirit more than the inclusive and family-friendly St. Mungo Museum – making it a very special addition to any open-minded traveller’s list of things to do in Glasgow.

Riverside Museum

There is no lack of architectural brilliance in gorgeous Glasgow!

The Riverside Museum is found where rivers Kelvin and Clyde meet and was designed by the late Dame Zaha Hadid.

At the award-winning Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel, with its scenic water views, you will find over 3000 objects representing the city’s transport journey – from skateboards to drams – and showing off the way that Glasgow has continuously shown engineering excellence and innovation.

The Glenlee – The Tall Ship

Perfectly situated next to the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel is a magnificent three-masted steel-hulled barque – ideal for those looking for nautical-themed things to do in Glasgow.

Known as the Glenlee or ‘the Tall Ship’ and originally built in 1896, this beauty has been restored and is open to the public to board and view, learning about its maritime story, transporting you to a time when high seas were a part of everyday life in Glasgow, Scotland.

City Centre Mural Trail

Glasgow is the artist’s dream! And you need barely go indoors to find some of the city’s best artworks.

The streets of the city itself are some of the biggest attractions in Glasgow – and this mural and street art trail through the city centre is proof. The St Mungo Mural Trail takes you past some famous attractions, too, including St Enoch Centre and the Buchanan Galleries.

The street murals found throughout the Glasgow city centre in these guided expeditions have elevated old buildings and given artists a canvas on which to express their love for the city along with their talents.

House for an Art Lover

Charles Rennie Mackintosh originally designed this special Glasgow attraction as an elegant country retreat, but it has since become a multipurpose indoor and outdoor park venue popular for weddings and events, exhibitions, artists’ studios, and more!

There’s a quaint cafe on-site that realises Mackinstosh’s original theme of country park living, and a day out to House for an Art Lover promises an inspiring adventure for all.

Glasgow Science Centre

When it comes to the best things to do in Glasgow for visitors , young and old, the Glasgow Science Centre offers an exciting outing to delight and enlighten.

Here , you’ll find a planetarium and ‘Space Zone’, an interactive biology and anatomy section, and much more. The philosophy of the Glasgow Science Centre is that everyone is a scientist – and they encourage everyone to indulge their curious mind with their immersive exhibits.

Glasgow City Chambers

The Glasgow City Chambers or Municipal Buildings may not sound like one of the most exciting things to do in Glasgow , but it certainly opens a window to Scottish political and civic life past and present that will intrigue and fascinate visitors from near or far.

Now the headquarters for the City Council of Glasgow, the City Chambers was built at the height of the British Empire with impressive architecture and interiors. Enjoy this historical glimpse into the foundations of a city like Glasgow.

The City Chambers comes with a range of bonus attractions by means of its central location. It is located on George Square, a famous open-air square named after King George III and embellished with 12 statues and monuments dedicated to important figures in Scottish history, such as Robert Burns, Thomas Graham, James Watt, Sir Walter Scott and Queen Victoria.

Keep your finger on the pulse before your visit to find out if there are any exciting events being hosted at George Square during your stay.

Escape Glasgow

In Glasgow, what to do is just a matter of what your interests are and how adventurous you are – because this bustling city has something for everyone!

Escape Glasgow is a stimulating escape room experience for 2 to 6 people. Choose a theme based on your favourite fictional settings and see if you and your team can escape within 60 minutes.

And if you need any motivation to escape, let it be the wonderful city attractions that await at your exit – for example, the Glasgow Cathedral is a mere 1.1 miles away!

Glasgow Women’s Library

While most tourists wouldn’t consider a library high on their list of what to visit in Glasgow, the Glasgow Women’s Library is unique in that its full collection of material is by, for and about women.

In celebrating the lives and achievements of women who might not be found in the standard history book, Glasgow’s commitment to equality shines through here. The library also often hosts events and activities.

So if you’re looking for a truly unique outing that cannot be compared to anything else in Scotland, the Glasgow Women’s Library should be one of the top things to do in Glasgow for you.

Indulge in Music, Theatre & Unique Cinema

Did you know that Glasgow has been recognised as a UNESCO City of Music?

You won’t be lacking options of where to go in Glasgow if it’s high-quality music, theatre or cinema you are after.

Have a look at some of the top things to do in Glasgow, Scotland, to keep up with the tune of this upbeat city.

Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre

One of the most unique things to do in Glasgow is to visit the exceptional Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre.

A sculptor-mechanic, a theatre director and a light and sound designer collaborated to create this theatre movement in St Petersburg, officially founded in 1990 and moving to Glasgow in 1996. The productions display a mechanical movement of kinematics supported by music, light and shadow play to tell engaging stories.

When in Glasgow, things to see don’t get more unusual and memorable than this.

The Barrowland Ballroom

Showing off a side of Glasgow attractions that combines its rich history with its cultural music scene, the Barrowland Ballroom is a live music venue that promises both locals and travellers a special evening.

At this dance hall in Glasgow, what to see varies from pop and rock to hip hop and indie with performers including Alt J, Tones and I, Run the Jewels, UB40, The Wombats, Yungblud, Postmodern Jukebox, and much more.

The popular tour stop for musicians from Scotland, the UK and Europe is a symbol of resilience and musical prowess – a must-have on your Glasgow things-to-do list.

Glasgow Film Theatre

Bring the magic back to an outing to the cinema with a visit to the Glasgow Film Theatre.

Known as the home of film in Glasgow, this independent cinema and registered charity is the most diverse and best publicly attended independent cinema in Scotland, hosting an array of annual film festivals and showcasing classics, independent films and documentaries, foreign language films, new releases and more.

Glaswegians are known for their love of good cinema, so you can rest assured that catching a flick at the GFT is one of the best things to do in Glasgow, Scotland.

Britannia Panopticon

While every museum in Glasgow shows off a piece of its history, you can immerse yourself in a piece of its musical history with a visit to the Britannia Panopticon – the world’s oldest surviving music hall.

Built in 1857, this music hall stands testament to the open and progressive nature of Glasgow, Scotland. Shows include fundraisers, silent films, drag and burlesque performances, stand-up comedy, sing-alongs and more, with an on-site bar, gift shop and private tours available as well.

As far as what to do in Glasgow goes, it doesn’t get more quirky and delightful than this!

The Citizens Theatre

A flagship theatre in Scotland, the Citizens Theatre provides tourists with one of the top things to do in Glasgow – presenting everything from new Scottish dramas to classic plays with a modern twist.

Through various programmes, audiences are educated and thrilled with the outstanding quality of classes, workshops and productions put out by this much-loved space which first opened as a theatre in 1878.

Other Things To Do in Glasgow, Clyde & Ayrshire

• Things to do in Ayr
• Things to Do in Clydebank
• Things to do in Girvan
• Things to do in Gourock
• Things to do in Greenock
• Things to do in Helensburgh
• Things to do in Kilmarnock
• Things to do in Largs
• Things to do in Maybole
• Things to do in Motherwell
• Things to do in Paisley
• Things to do in Renfrew
• Things to do in Troon

Graham Grieve

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Glasgow

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 27, 2023

Located on the River Clyde, Glasgow has been transformed from an industrial city to Scotland's cultural center, with its excellent museums, art galleries, concert venues, and festivals. Its Gaelic name, meaning "lovely green place," is apt, given its 70 parks and open spaces. Music lovers of all kinds will find plenty of things to do in Glasgow, known as Scotland's music capital , with venues that include the Theatre Royal (home of the Scottish Opera) and the Concert Hall (home of the Royal Scottish Orchestra).

Important cultural events include the Celtic Connections Music Festival and the Gourock Highland Games , and it's also a busy sports town, home to two major league football (soccer) clubs and a rugby club.

One of Glasgow's major attractions for tourists is its relationship with Charles Rennie Mackintosh , founder of the Glasgow School of Art, a major factor in the Arts & Crafts Movement. Buildings, museums, and even a cemetery feature his and his associates' works. To learn more about these and other fun things to do, be sure to refer often to our list of the top attractions in Glasgow Scotland.

See also: Where to Stay in Glasgow

Glasgow Cathedral

Glasgow school of art, kelvingrove art gallery and museum, george square and the merchant district, a walk through the necropolis, the university of glasgow: the hunterian museum and art gallery, riverside museum and tall ship, glasgow science centre & glasgow tower, pollok house and pollok country park, kibble palace and glasgow botanic gardens, glasgow green and the people's palace, the national piping centre and the bagpipe museum, gallery of modern art (& other must-visit galleries), the tenement house, glasgow central station, the lighthouse, where to stay in glasgow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in glasgow, glasgow - climate chart, more must-see attractions near glasgow.

The city's most significant historic building is the 12th-century Glasgow Cathedral, also known as St. Mungo Cathedral or the High Kirk of Glasgow. Seen from both inside and out, it looks as if it dropped out of a giant mold: the lines are clear, and there's no superfluous ornamentation.

Projecting from the south transept is the Blacader Aisle, named after the first bishop of Glasgow. The grandest room in the cathedral, however, is the crypt, which houses the tomb of St. Mungo, founder of the bishopric, who was buried here in AD 603. Although a visit to the cathedral is regarded as one of the top free things to do in Glasgow, donations are always welcome. Guided tours are also available free of charge.

Next door is the St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art , which examines the world religions, their rites, and how their doctrines deal with the issues of life and death. Exhibits include Egyptian mummies, Hindu statues, and a Zen Buddhist garden in the courtyard.

Address: Castle Street, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowcathedral.org.uk

Mackintosh's Art Academy is essential viewing for lovers of fine architecture. Completed in 1909, this Art Nouveau building confirmed the reputation of 28-year-old designer Charles Mackintosh, not just as a master of the exterior-the grand west facade is dominated by three 65-foot-high oriel windows, and the smaller windows on the east front are reminiscent of Scottish castles-but also as a superb interior designer.

The most famous rooms include the Principal's Room, one of the first of Mackintosh's "White Rooms;" the Mackintosh Room, where meetings of the Academy of Art are held; and the unique Library and Gallery. Student-led tours explore Mackintosh's work and influence and include galleries of his furniture and other works.

Address: 167 Renfrew Street, Glasgow

Official site: www.gsa.ac.uk

The bustling entertainment and shopping mecca of Sauchiehall Street , now almost entirely given over to pedestrians, is more than 1.5 miles long and offers the largest range of shops in the city. Sauchiehall Street ends at Argyle Street in the city's West End , a trendy area of cafés, restaurants, high-end shops, posh hotels, and, perhaps most importantly, the wonderful Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

Opened in 1901, the museum has a fine collection of British and continental paintings, including such gems as Van Gogh's portrait of the Glaswegian art collector Alexander Reid, and Salvador Dali's Christ of Saint John of the Cross .

An exceptional series of galleries feature the Glasgow School of Art and its best-known figure, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, with complete furnished rooms, pottery, metalwork, furniture, and other works of art. Scottish archaeological finds include Bronze Age tools and jewelry from Arran, Kintyre, and Glenluce.

Other exhibits of interest include weapons and armor, such as helmets, crossbows, and swords from the 15th and 16th centuries, as well as Flemish tapestries, Glasgow-made jewelry, silverware, glassware, and pottery from various periods.

Address: Argyle Street, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/kelvingrove/Pages/default.aspx

At the heart of Glasgow's historic Victorian city center stands the flower-bedecked George Square with its 12 statues of famous people associated with the city, including Robbie Burns, Walter Scott, and Queen Victoria. The east end of the square is dominated by the Town Hall and its 230-foot tower completed in 1890, while the Merchants' House is the headquarters of Britain's oldest Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1605.

South of George Square, a group of mid-19th-century warehouses are part of the city's trendy Merchant City district that, along with The Italian Centre, offer unique cafés, restaurants, and designer boutiques. The area is particularly attractive in winter, when families and those here enjoying some Glasgow sightseeing are bedazzled with an impressive display of Christmas lights.

Neighboring Glasgow Cathedral is the Necropolis, a Victorian Gothic garden cemetery that covers 37 acres that has famously been described as a "city of the dead." It is filled with not only beautiful memorial stones — all told, some 3,500 of them — but also sculptures and buildings designed by Glasgow artists, including Charles Rennie Macintosh.

Intricately carved Celtic crosses mingle here with weeping angels in atmospheric surroundings of tree-shaded walks that open to views of the cathedral and city. A variety of informative walking tours are available, and recommended.

Official site: www.glasgownecropolis.org/

The University of Glasgow dates from 1451 and is the second-oldest school of higher education in Scotland. The university has employed many illustrious teachers over the centuries, including James Watt; Adam Smith; and the "father of antiseptic surgery," Joseph Lister. A permanent exhibition at the Visitor Centre in University Avenue goes into more detail about the important discoveries made by these and other scientists who taught here.

Another famous scientist with connections to the university was William Hunter, an 18th-century Glaswegian doctor who bequeathed his collection of anatomical parts, coins, and objets d'art to form the basis of the Hunterian Museum. The museum now includes collections from the departments of ethnography, zoology, geology, and archaeology, including many finds from Roman sites. Artwork on display includes works by Rubens, Rembrandt and Reynolds .

The gallery also houses the reassembled principal interiors from the Glasgow home of architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his artist-wife, Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh.

Address: University Avenue, Glasgow

Official site: www.gla.ac.uk/hunterian/

Glasgow's ultra-modern, award-winning Riverside Museum includes many of the exhibits from the city's former Transport Museum, including model ships, locomotives, trams, vintage cars, and horse-drawn carriages. The majority are Glasgow-built.

A superb reconstruction of a 1938 Glasgow street has been added to the displays, as well as exhibits on immigration and disasters, featuring the sinking of the Lusitania . The Tall Ship at Riverside is docked just outside, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the Glenlee , a Glasgow-built three-masted barque that has been carefully restored by the Clyde Maritime Trust. Interesting guided tours are available, sometimes with costumed guides.

Those interested in museums and antiquities should also plan on paying a visit to the Glasgow Museums Resource Centre . This fascinating facility is where many of the city's museums store their collections when they are not on display. Think of it a little like a visit to a Costco, but nothing's for sale. It's a large place, with its many storage rooms stacked high with everything from artworks and sculptures to armor and weaponry; in fact, more than 1.5 million artifacts are stored here, so chances are you'll see something of interest.

Guided tours are provided, along with interesting lectures and workshops, including programs aimed at younger travelers.

Address: 100 Pointhouse Road, Glasgow

Official site: www.thetallship.com/

A must-visit sightseeing opportunity for families, the Glasgow Science Centre is a great way to spend time together. Located in the waterfront area near the Riverside Museum, this popular attraction is housed in a suitably striking titanium-clad building shaped like a ship's hull and offers no-end of hands-on fun and exploration.

Notable exhibits include human health, technology, and general scientific principles, along with a variety of laboratory-type stations where kids can attempt a few practical experiments based on their newly acquired knowledge. Also worth checking out here are the planetarium, an Imax cinema, and a science theater, where regular lectures and talks are held.

This is also the site of Glasgow Tower , Scotland's tallest building. It soars 127 meters (417 feet) high and offers panoramic views of Glasgow and the surrounding landscape from its observation platform. What makes this a truly unique spectacle, however, is that the entire structure is able to rotate a full 360 degrees. It was designed this way to withstand wind, and is the tallest of its kind in the world.

Although it is perfectly safe, the tower closes to visitors on particularly windy days because its movement underfoot can be quite unsettling.

Address: 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowsciencecentre.org

Close to four miles southwest of Glasgow's city center, the grounds of Pollok House cover an area of 355 acres. The home of the Maxwell family, this Edwardian mansion was built in 1752 by William Adam and his sons.

The majority of the expansive building is now open for visitors to explore, from the grand entrance hall to the extensive servants' quarters. Sir William Stirling Maxwell's collection of Spanish paintings by El Greco, Goya, Murillo, and Velázquez hangs on display, as well as several significant works by William Blake. Guided and self-guided tours are available.

The adventurous will want to try the unique "Escape the Past" game, a fully interactive exhibit that challenges players to solve puzzles and find their way back to present-day. The grounds of the estate include the Pollok Country Park, where you can admire the meticulously kept gardens or walk some of the trails that lead through woodlands and to the river side, and follow in the footsteps of characters from the hit TV show, Outlander . A highlight of a visit is the chance to enjoy a meal or snack in the Edwardian Kitchen café.

Address: 2060 Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/Property/Pollok-House/

For more than 200 years, the Glasgow Botanic Gardens have served as an oasis of natural beauty for the residents and visitors of Glasgow's West End . Originally founded in 1817, the gardens began as a conservatory for students at the University of Glasgow .

Built in 1873, Kibble Palace is the main attraction and one of the largest glasshouses in Britain. It contains a collection of rare orchids; tree ferns from Australia and New Zealand; and plants from Africa, the Americas, and the Far East. The grand structure is constructed of wrought iron and glass, providing a striking setting. Additional glasshouses include a variety of tropical plants that can be enjoyed year-round.

Among the outdoor gardens are the World Rose Garden and Children's Garden , which has a playground. There is also a designated walking path designed with families in mind, as well as a Heritage Trail that leads to the Kelvin Walkway .

One of the most popular things to do at the Glasgow Botanic Gardens is have a formal tea at the Tearoom in the Curator's House. Open seasonally, visitors can enjoy sitting among the foliage and flowers while enjoying a traditional tea time. There are also year-round dining options on-site, as well as plenty of space to spread out on the grass with a picnic.

Another beautiful park to visit is Bellahouston Park , site of the 1938 Empire Exhibition attended by more than 13 million visitors and still popular for its colorful flowerbeds. A star attraction here is the wonderfully named House for an Art Lover , built in 1996 to a design by Charles Mackintosh. This picturesque structure frequently hosts art exhibits and other events, while the park itself hosts frequent music concerts. Greenbank Gardens is another beautiful spot which features pools and fountains within its multiple walled gardens.

Address: 730 Great Western Road, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowbotanicgardens.com

Laid out in 1662, Glasgow Green is by far the oldest of the city's parks and is an easy walk from the city center. One of the park's main attractions is the People's Palace, a museum built in 1898 that tells the story of Glasgow from 1750 through the 20th century. Exhibits include a reproduction of a "Single End" home from the 1930s, a look at "the steamie" bathhouses, and a display dedicated to remembering the dance hall at the Glasgow Barrowlands Ballroom.

The Winter Garden , a large conservatory at the back of the palace, contains a fine collection of tropical and subtropical plants. Be sure to also visit the lovely Doulton Fountain , the world's largest terracotta fountain. An impressive 46 feet high and 70 feet across, it was built to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee and contains figures from across the Commonwealth. Another attraction is Nelson's Monument, an impressive column built in 1806 to commemorate Horatio Nelson's victories.

Address: Glasgow Green, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/peoples-palace/Pages/default.aspx

The National Piping Centre is an excellent resource for those with a passion for bagpipes and drumming, whether as a performer or a fan. Lessons and courses are available, including intensive bagpipe schools held at a variety of locations worldwide. The National Piping Centre is also home to the superb Museum of Piping , which includes piping memorabilia belonging to Robbie Burns and the 17th-century Iain Dall MacKay chanter, the world's oldest surviving bagpipe relic.

A well-stocked shop brimming with piping related supplies, music, and mementoes is also open to the public (the center also has its own hotel and restaurant). Glasgow hosts the annual World Pipe Band Championship , the world's largest such festival, held every August on Glasgow Green.

Address: 30-34 McPhater Street, Glasgow

Official site: www.thepipingcentre.co.uk

For art lovers, Glasgow is something of a feast. In addition to facilities such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery, this revitalized city has more galleries and related things to do than could possibly be enjoyed in a day or two, so plan on staying longer to get a true Glaswegian art fix.

Leading our list of other must-visit art facilities is the superb Gallery of Modern Art . Known locally simply as the "GOMA," this Romanesque structure is home to an often changing roster of exhibits featuring both local and international artists, along with workshops and lectures. And keep a look out for the equestrian statue outside the facility-chances are it'll have a cone placed on its rider's head, a typical Glaswegian gesture indicating an often irreverent attitude to local authorities, who have long since given up removing it.

The Burrell Collection is another gallery that should be included in your Glasgow art itinerary. Located in Pollok Country Park, this impressive collection features important medieval artworks, stained glass, sculptures, plus tapestries dating back over 500 years.

Address: Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/gallery-of-modern-art-goma

This small museum is a time capsule of the life of Agnes Toward, a typist who lived alone in one of Glasgow's 19 th -century tenement apartments from 1911 through 1965. Although she remained in this home for over 50 years, Agnes's residence changed very little from how she kept it in the 1920s, almost frozen in time. Preserved by the National Trust for Scotland, the home sits just as it did when Agnes lived here.

Among the most interesting features of the apartment are its working gas lights and the original 1892 coal-fired kitchen stove, complete with stovetop, oven, and iron-heating racks. The kitchen is fully outfitted with century-old cookware and cleaning supplies, including a hand-crank laundry wringer. Each room contains its original furniture, including well-preserved Victorian-era horsehair chairs, a box bed, a piano, and a pedal-operated sewing machine in excellent condition.

The collection here is particularly unique because Agnes kept many everyday items that most would have disposed of, offering visitors the chance to see the more mundane items that are often excluded from historic re-creations.

Address: 145 Buccleuch Street, Glasgow

Glasgow Central Station is well worth a visit even if you aren't planning to hop aboard a train. This beautiful Victorian station exudes grandeur and historic charm while serving as Scotland's busiest rail station, fitted with modern amenities. It opened in 1879 as the city's second major station, and today houses a variety of restaurants, cafés, and shops.

Among its most stunning architectural features is Heilanman's Umbrella (Scottish Gaelic for "Highlandman's Umbrella"), a glass-walled bridge that connects the main station to Argyle Street. It was given this name because this was a common meeting place for immigrants from the north, providing them a centrally located spot that offered cover.

It is also home to the voco Grand Central Glasgow hotel, which features a lovely Queen Anne-style façade. Visitors can book tours that explore the station's hidden vaults and abandoned subterranean platforms.

The Lighthouse is home to Scotland's Centre for Design and Architecture, which features both permanent and rotating art exhibits of contemporary Glasgow artists and designers. It is also home to an exhibit honoring Charles Rennie Mackintosh who designed the building, formerly home to the Herald newspaper. The Lighthouse is also known for Mackintosh Tower , a stunning stone structure that can be climbed via a spiral staircase for excellent views.

Those into other art forms, including music, film, literature, and theater, should also visit the Centre for Contemporary Arts . They host a variety of exhibits, workshops, performances, and festivals year-round.

Address: 11 Mitchell Lane, Glasgow

Official site: www.thelighthouse.co.uk

Glasgow's top attractions are so widely spread that it's impossible to stay near all of them. But it's a pleasant city to explore on foot, and many attractions are within walking distance of the cluster of shops and restaurants around the pedestrianized blocks of Sauchiehall Street. Fortunately, that area of Glasgow also has a number of these highly rated hotels . Here are a few of our favorites:

Luxury Hotels :

• Smartly decorated in an updated Art Deco mode with a nod to its place in auto racing history, Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel and its prize-winning spa and restaurant are five minutes from Sauchiehall and McIntosh's famed Willow Tea Rooms.
• Closer to the River Clyde and the central rail station, Hotel Indigo Glasgow is also handy to restaurants and shops.
• Located near Queen Street Station and George Square, Carlton George Hotel has a rooftop restaurant.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• At the Buchanan Galleries shopping complex and a few steps off Sauchiehall Street, Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre Buchanan Galleries Hotel has good city views from upper floor rooms.
• In the same neighborhood, citizenM Glasgow has small but cleverly decorated modern rooms with mood lighting.
• Featuring city views and luxury amenities, Apex City of Glasgow Hotel is a block from Sauchiehall Street and a short walk from George Square.

Budget Hotels:

• Just off George Square and a few steps from Queen Street Station, The Z Hotel Glasgow offers guests a free cheese buffet in the evening.
• At the west end of Sauchiehall Street, about a 15-minute walk from the shopping district, Argyll Hotel is in a smart neighborhood opposite Kelvingrove Museum and near the university and Glasgow Botanic Gardens.
• With free parking, Premier Inn Glasgow Pacific Quay Hotel stands beside the River Clyde, opposite the exhibition center, a one-minute walk to the Glasgow Science Centre.

Some of Scotland's top attractions can be easily explored on day trips from Glasgow . One of the most famous sites in all Scotland, Loch Lomond is a short train ride from the city. From here, you can take one of Europe's most beautiful train rides, from Balloch to Oban , gateway to the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides . Southwest of Glasgow are lovely Ayrshire and Dumfriesshire , where you can follow a trail of attractions connected to poet Robbie Burns. The elegant city of Edinburgh is a train-ride away to the east, crowned by the impressive Edinburgh Castle .

More on Scotland

24 Epic Things to Do in Glasgow, Scotland – Ultimate Guide

Glasgow is a bustling city in Scotland with a fascinating history alongside its renowned  museums , Victorian and art nouveau architecture, colourful street arts , legendary music scenes and numerous festivals. Scotland’s largest city will surprise you.

In the 19th century, Glasgow was one of the important industrial cities in Scotland . Today it is one of Scotland’s most culturally influential hubs. 

It was the first city in Britain to be named a UNESCO City of Music. Also, in 1990, this city was declared the European Capital of Culture.

Often overshadowed by Scotland’s capital city,  Edinburgh , Glasgow has its own unique vibe and character.

This city’s Scottish Gaelic name means ‘Dear Green Place’ – this city has over ninety wonderful parks and gardens to enjoy. Add a few of them to your  Glasgow itinerary .

Glaswegians are some of the funniest and friendliest people you would meet in Scotland. 

Many travellers visit here as a day trip from Edinburgh , but this city is also a great base to explore Scotland.

And if you fancy venturing outside the city border, you’ll discover some exciting places – from the tranquillity of Loch Lomond to the picturesque historic town of Inveraray . There are some unmissable  day trip options from Glasgow .

So, whether you are looking for some fun activities or exploring  hidden gems , there is something for you in this guide. 

Best Things to Do in Glasgow, Scotland

1. explore the kelvingrove art gallery and museum.

Housed in a Spanish-Baroque-style red sandstone building in the West End, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the best museums in Glasgow .

From ancient Egyptian artefacts to Renaissance art, arms and armour to animals – you can find everything under one roof.

Established in 1901, Kelvingrove has an astounding collection of 8000 objects displayed across its 22 world-class themed galleries.

It features an excellent collection of priceless artworks, including works by European masters – Monet, Gauguin, Renoir, Rembrandt and Van Gogh. You can also find the paintings by the Scottish Colourists and the Glasgow Boys here.

One of the most notable paintings at Kelvingrove is Salvador Dali’s ‘Christ of Saint John of the Cross’. Also, Sir Roger, the Asian elephant in the stuffed animal section of the West Court, is a firm favourite with locals and visitors of Glasgow.

Another popular display at Kelvingrove is ‘The Floating Heads’ installation by Sophie Cave.

After visiting the museum, meander around the nearby Kelvingrove Park. The 85-acre public park is a peaceful urban oasis and a popular place for local dog walkers, joggers and cyclists.

Read More : 15 of the Best Museums in Glasgow to Visit

Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday and Saturday, 10 am-5 pm. Friday and Sunday, 11 am-5 pm.

2. Discover the History of Glasgow Cathedral

Steeped in more than 800 years of history, this cathedral is one of the oldest medieval structures on the Scottish mainland.

Dedicated to Saint Mungo, the patron saint of Glasgow, it is an oasis of peace and tranquillity, away from the hustle-bustle of the busy streets.

After admiring the magnificent Gothic architecture from the outside, step inside to explore the interior of this cathedral.

Read More : 2 Days in Glasgow Itinerary

The oldest part, the nave, was built in the early 1200s. Here you will find one of the finest post-World War II collections of stained glasses in Britain.

Admire the stone carving of the ceiling at the Blackadder Aisle. Also, watch out for the beautiful blue stained glass window called the Millennium Window, by John K. Clark.

Glasgow Cathedral was featured in the popular TV series, Outlander as an 18th-century Parisian hospital.

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm and Sunday, 1 pm – 4 pm.

3. Visit Riverside Museum

Located at the intersection of River Clyde and River Kelvin, the Riverside Museum is an award-winning transport museum reflecting this city’s rich industrial legacy.

Designed by renowned architect Dame Zaha Hadid, this museum is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Glasgow.

From automobiles and locomotives to skateboards and prams to mock subway trains – you can easily spend a few hours browsing through the museum’s impressive transport collections.

We particularly loved the moving display of various model ships. There are interactive and explanatory screens full of images and videos that tell the story behind the objects.

Also, stroll along the reconstructed old cobbled street of Glasgow, dating from the late 19th century to the late 20th century.

If you are hungry, there is a cafe inside the museum, serving fresh soup, sandwiches and cakes.

From Partick Station, The Riverside Museum is just 10 minutes walk.

Opening Hours: Monday- Thursday and Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm. Friday and Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm.

4. Follow the Mural Trail

You can find colourful street art all around the city. Walking the dedicated mural trail is one of the most unique and fun activities in Glasgow. There are over twenty-five stunning street murals across the city centre. It takes about two to three hours to complete the trail.

The street murals transform otherwise dull places with stunning pieces of art. Even if you are short on time, you can add a few of the murals to your Glasgow itinerary .

St Mungo mural on High Street is the most popular one. In recent years, it has gotten very famous on social media. Created by local artist Smug, this stunning mural displays a modern-day St Mungo, the patron saint of this city, holding a robin in his hand.

Further Read : A Detailed Guide to the Best Murals of Glasgow Mural Trail

Don’t miss St Enoch and Child mural showing a younger St Mungo cradled by his mother St Thenue. Both murals are close to each other.

Another one of our favourites is Honey, I Shrunk the Kids on Mitchell Street. The large hyper-realistic mural shows a girl with a magnifying glass observing and trying to pick something up from the street.

Also, there are three beautiful murals of Glasgow-born comedian Billy Connolly presented on his 75th birthday – Billy Connolly by John Byrne, Big Yin by Rachel Maclean and Dr Connolly, I Presume? by Jack Vettriano.

5. Take a Day Trip from Glasgow

There are so many amazing day trip options from Glasgow that we would encourage you to add at least some of them to your travel itinerary.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is a must-visit place in Scotland. It is the largest freshwater lake by surface in the whole of Britain. Take a scenic boat cruise from Balloch and explore the beautiful villages dotted on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. The charming village of Luss is a popular destination for water sports.

Edinburgh is an unmissable day trip destination from Glasgow. Start your city tour with a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle . After taking a stroll through the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile, climb Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill for a stunning view. Don’t miss a quick visit to Dean Village , Victoria Street and Circus Lane in Stockbridge .

Another great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Glasgow is the Isle of Arran. Popularly known as “Scotland in Miniature”, the island is famous for its spectacular coastline, castles , stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and plenty of local produce. Also, there are hiking routes and trails for all fitness levels.

You can also spend a day in the ancient city of Stirling and discover the thousands of years of fascinating Scottish history.

Read More : 15 Best Day Trips from Glasgow

6. Visit the Burrell Collection

Located inside the Pollok Country Park, the Burrell Collection is one of the best museums in Glasgow. It houses an impressive collection of around 9000 objects.

They are all collected by Sir William Burrell over 75 years. The museum holds the greatest art collections ever accumulated by one single person.

An affluent shipping magnet and an avid collector, Sir William Burrell, with his wife, Lady Burrell, gave their enormous personal collection to the city of Glasgow in 1944.

From Chinese and Islamic art to medieval stained glasses and paintings – the remarkable collection holds around 6000 years of history. Admire the Wagner Garden carpet, one of the three surviving Persian garden carpets in the world. You will see paintings and sculptures by renowned artists like Manet, Rodin, Degas and Cézanne.

There is a cafe and shop inside the museum. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Pollok House.

Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday and Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm, Friday and Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm.

7. Marvel at the University of Glasgow’s Architecture

Located in the West End, this university is one of the most iconic landmarks in this Scottish city. Founded in 1451, it is the fourth oldest university in the UK and the second oldest in Scotland.

The main building is often considered the real-life inspiration behind the famous school for wizards, Hogwarts. Although Harry Potter movies were never filmed here, the spectacular Gothic architecture looks like something out of a storybook.

Also, it has appeared in many films and TV shows, like Cloud Atlas, T2 Trainspotting and Outlander.

Around the campus of Glasgow University, you will find various museums, including the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, Zoology Museum and Anatomy Museum.

Don’t forget to visit the stunning Cloisters, which connect the east and west Quadrangles, the two most beautiful parts of the university and are very photogenic.

Also, from the university flagpole, you will get an elevated view over Glasgow, with Kelvingrove dominating the skyline. It is an excellent spot to watch the sunset.

8. Explore Kibble Palace and Glasgow Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens is one of the best places in Glasgow to walk and commune with nature. Founded in 1817 by botanist Thomas Hopkirk, it houses a wide variety of plant collections from all over the world.

Also, it is an ideal place to get sun-soaked on lazy summer days while enjoying the blossoms around.

Inside the beautiful garden, you will find the stunning Kibble Palace, an architectural gem of Glasgow. Designed by John Kibble, the glasshouse contains an impressively large variety of temperate plants and several beautiful statues. Admission to the garden and the Kibble Palace is free.

There are several other glasshouses you can explore. Botanics also hosts events and is often used as a concert venue.

Pop into the tearoom for some delicious scones, tea and sandwiches. It can be found near Kibble Palace, at the former curator’s house.

Opening Hours: Daily, from 7 am to dusk all year.

9. Admire the Picturesque Views from the Necropolis

Perched on a small hill adjacent to the Glasgow Cathedral, Necropolis is a Victorian garden cemetery and the final resting place for over fifty thousand residents.

Modelled after the famous Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, this vast 37-acre cemetery is full of stunning architecture and sculptures. Today, it is the second-largest green open space in the city.

Read More : 13 Hidden Gems in Glasgow

The Necropolis was founded in 1831 by the Merchants’ House of Glasgow. It was the first planned cemetery in the city. After the passing of the Cemeteries Act in 1832, this site officially opened in 1833.

Many prominent figures are buried here, including former Lord Provosts, poets, shipbuilders, lawyers and merchants. Wander around the various paths around the cemetery. You would find beautiful monuments,  mausoleums and decorated tombstones with intricate details.

Also, you will get a spectacular panoramic view of the cityscape from the Necropolis. On a clear day, you can even see the hills of Cowal, Kyle and Cunninghame.

10. Experience Life at Sea on Tall Ship Glenlee

Berthed on the Northern bank of River Clyde, The Tall Ship Glenlee is a historic maritime landmark and one of the five remaining Clyde-built three-masted ships still afloat. Glenlee is one of a kind in the UK and one of the free places to visit in the city.

It was built in 1896 at Bay Shipyard in Port Glasgow by Anderson Rodger & Co. as a cargo ship. She can carry 2,600 tons of cargo with a crew of just 25 men.

From 1922 she was used as a sail training ship for the Spanish Navy and was renamed Galatea. Later she became a part of the Spanish Republican Navy.

In the early 1990s, she was found deserted in a Spanish port. The Clyde Maritime Trust bought it in an auction in 1992, and after a lot of restoration, Glenlee was opened to the public in 1999.

Hop onboard to explore this ship-turned-museum. You will learn a lot about the fascinating maritime history of Glasgow and what life was like onboard this vessel. Visit the engine room and the cargo hold below the deck. There’s a mini cinema and a small play area for the kids in the cargo hold.

Opening Hours: Summer months, Wednesday-Monday, 10 am to 5 pm and Tuesday, 11 am to 5 pm.

11. Soak up the Sun at Pollok Country Park

Spanning across a huge 361-acre area, Pollok Country Park is the largest park in Glasgow. It is an excellent place to relax and unwind, escaping the busy city centre.

Hop on a train from Central Station to Pollokshaws West, which takes around 10 minutes. The park is just a few minutes walk from there.

Walkers and cyclists can enjoy the extensive woodland trails and gardens. Watch out for the extremely adorable highland cattle in the park.

Located in the middle of this park, Pollok House is an elegant Georgian house and one of the best historical sites in Glasgow. It was built in 1752 and was the ancestral home of the Maxwell family. While there are no entry fees for the park, you need to buy a ticket for the house.

Step inside the house to admire its impressive interiors and a great collection of Spanish paintings. It is interesting to see the labyrinth of passageways used by the staff to run the house.

Opening Hours: Pollock House, 10.00–16.00. The Garden & Country Park is open daily.

12. See Famous Works in the Hunterian Museum & Art Gallery

The University of Glasgow’s Hunterian Museum is the oldest museum in Scotland, and it holds one of the best university collections in the world. It has one of the largest collections in Scotland outside the National Museums.

Founded in 1807, The Hunterian Museum was originally built on the High Street of Glasgow,  mainly based on the collections donated by Dr William Hunter, a Scottish anatomist, physician and collector.

You will see an impressive archaeological collection of Roman artefacts from the Antonine Wall, frontiers of the Roman Empire in Scotland.

Located only a few minutes walk from the Hunterian Museum, the Hunterian Art Gallery showcases a wide range of outstanding masterpieces by several renowned artists.

The gallery is home to a great collection of work by renowned Glaswegian architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Admire the world’s largest permanent display of the work of James McNeill Whistler. There are also paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Chardin, Stubbs, Glasgow Boys and the Scottish Colourist.

Opening Hours: Tuesday- Sunday, 10 am-5 pm and closed on Monday.

13. Admire the Grand Architecture of Glasgow City Chambers

Inaugurated in 1888 by Queen Victoria, this grand building is one of the most iconic and impressive landmarks in this city. Also, it has been the headquarters of Glasgow City Council since 1996.

Located in George Square, the Beaux-arts style building shows the wealth and industrial prosperity of the merchant city. While the building looks absolutely stunning from the outside, you will have to join a tour to access the interiors of the building.

Guided tours run twice at 10.30 am and 2.30 pm, from Monday to Friday. No prior booking is necessary, and entry is free. Two main highlights of the tour are the grand marble staircase and the banqueting hall.

Built using marble imported from Italy, the staircase is the largest marble staircase in Europe. It is believed that the City Chambers have more marble than the Vatican’s.

The ornate banqueting hall has beautifully painted murals by the Glasgow Boys. The room has hosted kings, queens and presidents over the years. Don’t miss the Upper Gallery on the third floor.

14. Visit the Gallery of Modern Art

This is the most visited modern art gallery in Scotland. Opened in 1996, GoMA hosts various temporary exhibitions and events featuring local and international artists.

The permanent display shows the history of the gallery building. The neoclassical building was built in 1778 for William Cunninghame, a wealthy tobacco Lord of Glasgow.

Here you will find works by David Hockney, Sebastião Salgado, and Andy Warhol.

In front of the gallery, you will find the proudly standing equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, with a traffic cone on his head. Created by French sculptor Carlo Marochetti in 1844, it’s one of Glasgow’s most iconic attractions.

The authorities unsuccessfully tried removing the cone many times, and every time it got replaced. What started as a cheeky prank years ago has become a tradition today.

It shows the humorous side of the Glaswegians. The statue even got a place in the Lonely Planet’s list of “top 10 most bizarre monuments on Earth”.

Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday, Saturday, 10 am-5 pm. Friday and Sunday, 11 am-5 pm.

15. Attend a Live Music Performance

Considered the music capital of Scotland, Glasgow was the first city in the UK to be named UNESCO City of Music in 2008. Attend a live music event to experience the city’s vibrant music scene first-hand.

Many city pubs host live gigs regularly ranging from Scottish ceilidh bands to jazz, rock to indie – there is something for everyone.

Music is in the heart of this city. Around 130 music events take place every week on average across various venues in Glasgow.

Hampden Park and OVO Hydro have previously hosted some famous names in

music, like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, U2 and Adele. In 1993 Oasis was signed on immediately after their performance in King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut. The iconic Barrowland Ballroom has hosted Oasis, David Bowie and Metallica.

Visit 13th Note, BLOC+, and The Howlin’ Wolf bar for a memorable musical evening. The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, City Halls and Old Fruitmarket host concerts in classical settings. The city is also the home of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Scottish Opera and BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.

You can attend many music festivals throughout the year. Celtic Connections, Glasgow International Jazz Festival, TRNSMT, Country to Country, and World Pipe Band Championships attract thousands of music lovers.

16. Discover Glasgow Green and People’s Palace

Bounded on one side by River Clyde, this is the oldest park in the city. It takes only twenty minutes to walk from George Square to get here.

The historic parkland was granted by King James II to Bishop William Turnbull and the people of Glasgow in the 15th century.

There are many historic houses and monuments around the park which include Nelson’s Monument, Templeton Carpet Factory, St. Andrew’s Suspension Bridge, McLennan Arch, and the Doulton Fountain.

Set inside the park, People’s Palace and Winter Garden is a social history museum and a Victorian glasshouse. Opened in 1898 by the Earl of Rosebery, it was built as a cultural centre for the people of Glasgow.

The museum showcases the fascinating history of the city and its people from 1750 to the end of the 20th century. You will see a recreated one-room tenement house, the famous communal laundry of Glasgow and many more.

Adjacent to the People’s Palace is the glass-domed winter garden glasshouse. You will find a variety of tropical plants there.

17. Delve into Delicious Food in Ox and Finch

Just a short walk from Kelvingrove Park, Ox and Finch has been attracting rave reviews from the locals and visitors for its creative food. Undoubtedly, it’s one of the best restaurants in Glasgow.

Featured many times in the coveted Michelin Guide over the years, the food here is reasonably priced and served in tapas style.

So, you need to order five to six dishes for two people. We ordered butter bean hummus and flatbread, crab and crayfish cocktail, confit duck leg, slow-roasted pork belly and roasted Jerusalem artichokes.

The food was absolutely delicious and very well presented. Different ingredients and flavours are beautifully put together to create something unique. We definitely recommend a visit here.

18. Take a Tour of Tennent’s Wellpark Brewery

Situated at the East End of Glasgow, Wellpark Brewery is the home of Scotland’s most celebrated brewer, Tennent’s. This a must-visit place for all beer lovers visiting this city.

It was founded in 1740 by Hugh and Robert Tennent at Drygate Bridge, near Glasgow Cathedral. Today, it’s known as one of the best-selling pale lager brands in Scotland.

You can find the company’s trademark large red “T” signboard at almost all the pubs and restaurants in Scotland.

The Tennent’s Story Heritage Centre is the largest beer attraction in the UK. You will see exhibits and installations showing the intriguing story of their origin and their role in Scottish culture. You can buy gifts and souvenirs from the shop down there. Tours run seven days a week.

The Tennent’s Brewery Tour takes visitors backstage, where all the magic happens.

You will learn the fascinating history of the brewery and the nearby area of Glasgow and of course, get to know their famous brewing process.

The tour takes around 1 hour 15 minutes and costs £12.50 per person. It is not suitable for people under the age of 12 years.

19. Seek out Views atop the Lighthouse

Located at Mitchell Lane, a narrow side street just off the busy Buchanan Street in Glasgow, The Lighthouse is Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture. It serves as an exhibition centre, gallery and event venue and promotes design and architecture.

The building used to be the office of the Glasgow Herald newspaper. It was designed by the renowned Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

It was the first public commission completed by him. For all Mackintosh lovers, The Lighthouse is a must-visit place.

There is also a viewing platform at the top of the Lighthouse which requires climbing 136 steps via a helical staircase from level three. You will get an uninterrupted panoramic view of the skyline of Glasgow.

To avoid the climb, take a lift to the indoor viewing platform at level six and admire the stunning view of the Mackintosh Tower and the city skyline.

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10.30 am – 5 pm and Sunday, 12 pm – 5 pm.

20. Visit the Mackintosh House

The Mackintosh House is the reconstructed home of world-renowned Glaswegian architect, artist and designer – Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his wife, artist Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh, who lived here from 1906 to 1914.

It is a must-visit Glasgow attraction for anyone interested in Mackintoshes’ design and architecture.

When the couple moved to the 78 Southpark Avenue house in 1906, they redesigned and refurbished the old Victorian end-of-terrace house in their distinctive style. The house was demolished in the early 1960s due to the expansion of Glasgow University, but the furniture and fixtures were preserved.

Later the university decided to rebuild the house. Much of the principal interiors of the original house were carefully reconstructed, including the dining room, studio drawing room and bedroom.

Original furniture and decorations were reassembled, and even the room sequences were exactly the same as the original house.

The entrance to the house is through the Hunterian Art Gallery.

Opening Hours: 10 am–5 pm Tue–Sun. Monday closed.

21. Shop Till You Drop in Glasgow

This bustling city is a shopper’s paradise. It’s one of the best cities for shopping in Britain outside London.

Buchanan Street is the main pedestrianised shopping area. Bustling with street performers and shoppers, it runs through Sauchiehall Street, Argyle Street and Ingram Street- known as Glasgow’s ‘Style Mile’.

Argyll Arcade, Buchanan Galleries, St Enoch Centre, and Princes Square are popular shopping malls with independent boutiques and famous designer brands.

Head towards Mr Ben, The City, and Starry Starry Night for a unique vintage shopping experience.

Also, visit The Barras Market at the East End for some bargain buys. It takes place every weekend with vendors selling everything, from antiques to vintage clothing and home accessories.

22. Enjoy a Show at Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre

In Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre, hundreds of exquisitely hand-carved metal figures come alive with atmospheric music and lighting. Catching a show in this theatre is one of the fun activities in Glasgow.

Originally founded in Russia in 1989, Sharmanka moved here in 1995.

The shortest show is named Journey and it runs for about 30 minutes. It’s a great introductory show featuring some of their most popular kinetic pieces.

Promenade and Wheels of Life are Sharmanka’s two main shows, and they run for around an hour. The promenade displays Eduard Bersudsky’s kinetic sculptures made in Scotland and is suitable for all ages.

Wheels of Life shows the early kinetic sculptures made in the Soviet Union and portrays a much darker theme, which is recommended for adults only.

23. Try a Tipple at Clydeside Distillery

You can’t leave Scotland without visiting a distillery. Located at Queen’s Dock, Clydeside Distillery is Glasgow’s first dedicated Single Malt Whisky distillery in more than 100 years. The distillery was opened to the public in November 2017.

They offer different types of tours and tasting sessions. During the guided tour, you will get to visit an exhibit to learn about Glasgow’s history of the whisky industry. Next, an expert tour guide will show you around the production area and demonstrate the methods and skills of whisky-making. The tour concludes at their Tasting Room, where you can enjoy three drams of 10-year-old Single Malt Whiskies from Highland, Lowland and Islay.

Another slightly longer tour is called the Chocolate and Whisky Tour. It lasts for about an hour and a half.

24. Enjoy Glasgow’s Legendary Nightlife

Like Newcastle , this city has a buzzing, vibrant nightlife. This city is one of the best places in Scotland for a night out.

There are many diverse venues across the city to enjoy theatres, comedy, cabaret and live music. So, dance till sunrise or enjoy a Ceilidh at a traditional Glasgow pub.

Some of the most famous nightclubs are The Garage, Revolution, Nice N Sleazy, Sloans, Swing, and The Corinthian Club. For LGBTQ+ inclusive bar and music venues, pop into Polo Lounge, Katie’s Bar, and Delmonicas.

You can’t leave the city without visiting one of its many traditional pubs. For a wee drink or partying with pals, visit Slouch, Waxy O’Connor’s Glasgow, Scotia Bar and The Ben Nevis Bar. Vegans can enjoy themselves at Mono, a vegan café bar.

Map of the Attractions

Here is a map of all the best attractions to visit and the best things to do in Glasgow. We have also marked popular places to eat and all the stunning viewpoints around the city. Save it on your phone. So, you can use it offline. Click here to save the Google Map on your phone .

How to Get Around Glasgow

This city has an excellent public transport network. First Bus runs frequent

bus services around the city and beyond. You can buy a day ticket for unlimited travel. Also, jump onto the Subway, which links the south and north of the city. Underground trains run on a circular route and are very frequent.

Many of the attractions in the Glasgow city centre are within walking distance from one another. So you can easily get around on foot. You can also hire an OVO e-bike to explore this city in an environment-friendly way.

Best Time to Visit Glasgow

April to July is the best time to visit this city. The weather remains relatively dry and warm. While July is the hottest month, the temperature rarely exceeds 19 degrees Celsius – quite pleasant to enjoy the city.

But bear in mind the Scottish weather is quite unpredictable. So, carry an umbrella or a rain jacket with you. Also, most of the famous festivals happen during this time.

But honestly, Glasgow is an all-year-round destination. Most of the attractions are open daily throughout the year.

This city is great for a wee winter city break as well. Every year, Glasgow glams up from mid-November till the end of the year with beautiful Christmas markets.

How Many Days to Spend in Glasgow

We would suggest spending 2-3 days to see all the main tourist sites. Although, if you are short on time, it is possible to see some of the highlights of Glasgow in a day.

There are so many exciting things going on here you can easily spend a week visiting all the museums, galleries, parks, music performances and festivals. Also, if you are staying longer, there are some great day trip options from this city.

We hope this article on the best things to do in Glasgow was helpful in planning your trip.

Love Moumita & Sankha.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » Scotland » 25 Best Things to Do in Glasgow (Scotland)

25 Best Things to Do in Glasgow (Scotland)

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland , situated on the River Clyde. Well known for its beautiful, thriving shopping districts and the culture that it has to offer. It attracts a large number of tourists every year. It doesn’t matter whether you want to experience culture, food or shopping, you’ll find something to fit your interests within the boundaries of this up and coming city. The slogan, “People Make Glasgow”, really does fit the place, and you’ll be having friendly conversations with locals and travellers alike there before you know it.

Journey with us through the best things to do in Glasgow to learn just how vital the history of the city was to make it what it is today.

1. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Situated within the heart of Glasgow’s famous West End you can find Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Standing for more than a century it was purpose built to be what it is today, with stunning architecture and a range of separate exhibit rooms. As a free attraction it really shouldn’t be missed, and it’s only a quick walk away from the Kelvingrove subway station, making it easy to get to. Inside you’ll find more than 22 themed galleries, and 8000 objects to capture your attention. Go from seeing Salvador Dali’s Christ of St. John of the Cross to seeing exhibits on dinosaurs and prehistoric mammals. Not to mention all of the beautifully displayed animals, and the skeleton of a stag who could make even the tallest of people feel short.

2. Shopping on Buchanan Street

Are you one of those travellers who absolutely has to go shopping no matter where in the world you travel to? If so, then Buchanan Street will feel just like home to you. It forms the central stretch of the city’s shopping district, linking you to an array of shops in each direction. It’s best known for the variety that it offers both tourists and locals alike, and most shoppers spend a lot of time inside of Buchanan Galleries. In there you can find everything from Hollister and Pandora, to Millie’s Cookies and The Whisky Shop. Given that Scottish weather isn’t exactly known for being the best, it would also be a great way for you to escape the rain.

3. Glasgow Tigers Speedway

Boasting a reputation as the only professional speedway team in the west of Scotland, these men certainly have something fantastic to offer. The season runs from the end of March through to the end of August, but it would be advisable to check the match schedule before your trip if you’re looking to attend one of their events. You’ll have a fun filled, well fuelled day watching them, sitting on the edge of your seats when it looks as if they might fall. Adults and children alike will enjoy watching the Glasgow Tigers Speedway events while they compete for their place on the British Speedway’s Premier League table.

4. Bread Meats Bread

Since the opening of Bread Meats Bread it has quickly become one of the finest eating establishments in the centre of Glasgow. One of the things that has earned it the reputation it deserves is that when you go, there’s no such thing as reservations there. Everyone is treated exactly the same, giving it the feel of a real family owned business, where each customer is kindly treated as a house guest. Don’t let the name deceive you either, they also serve vegetarian options! Pop in for an amazing burger, and give yourself the choice between something simple like a classic burger, or their signature Wolf of St Vincent Street burger. They also now serve poutine, Canada’s national dish, and since this there seems to have been a nice decrease in the number of Glaswegians suffering with terrible hangovers! So take yourself in for a lovely, family focused meal.

5. The Riverside Museum

If you would like to experience more of Glasgow’s past during your time in the city, you certainly shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit The Riverside Museum. You can follow the city’s subway system around to Partick Subway Station and it’s just a 7-minute walk away. The subway really is the easiest way to get around the city, and with its loop system you’re unlikely to get lost. Inside of The Riverside Museum you’ll find something for everyone, while diving into the rich history that Glasgow has to offer. Everything from locomotives and vintage cars to an actual Stormtrooper can be found on display there. So, take a step back in history and walk through the interactive “shops” you’ll be presented with, climb aboard the exhibits and have fun.

6. The West End

Considered by many to be the most beautiful part of Glasgow, you certainly shouldn’t miss the opportunity to see the West End while you’re adventuring around. It’s one of those places that leaves a mark on you while you’re travelling, having its own independent character that can’t easily be defined. With a beautiful mix of character and stunning architecture it houses some of the loveliest vintage shops, and alleyways full of small, intimate bars and restaurants. You can find everything from vegetarian Indian restaurants to small restaurants serving classic Thai food. It’s an area that you will be wanting to find yourself in again and again.

7. Glasgow Science Centre

Have you got children you want to keep entertained while travelling? If so, then this is the attraction for them. The Glasgow Science Centre is purpose built to both teach and entertain children, giving them an insight into the world of science and technology. Children under the age of 7 can use the Big Explorer area, where they can use water and operate a crane to keep a pretend cargo ship balanced. Or they can put on their own little puppet show under the sea, while having some fun with a musical shark and a giant walk on piano. If your children are very young, then they’ll probably have a lot of fun in the soft play area on the bottom floor. But adults and children alike will find the planetarium captivating, letting your imaginations run across the skies.

8. Kelvingrove Park

Do you prefer to have a peaceful day out while travelling? Kelvingrove Park could be just the place for you, situated along the side of the River Kelvin, and set in 85 acres it provides an urban haven for animals and people alike. There’s a possibility that you could come across animals as rare as kingfishers and otters, or as common as red foxes. You should expect to see red foxes quite frequently in the West End of the city after the sun sets, they’re a common sight and will leave you well alone! When the weather is nice the park is popular with all kinds of people, from dog walkers to the students of the nearby university. Have a leisurely stroll, or sit down for a picnic. Maybe you could even take your family for an animal hunt out in the park.

9. The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland

There are plenty of performing art venues throughout the UK that can boast putting on some sort of performance already every day, but there aren’t many who can say that they facilitate more than 500 performances every year. The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is one of the few that ticks this box! When planning your trip, you should have a little look online and see if there’s something that suits your taste, with drama, musical theatre and pantomimes there certainly should be. You’ll get to sit in a comfortable, modern auditorium with eye catching architecture and friendly, student staff who are happy to answer any questions you have.

Related tour : Glasgow’s Music Mile Tour

10. Glasgow Cathedral

Most of the medieval cathedrals that exist throughout the United Kingdom are now ruins, so you should take advantage of seeing one of the last remaining great cathedrals while you’re in Glasgow. It has been used for worship for more than 800 years, and has one of the largest collections of post-war stained glass windows. You can see the brilliant arches, hand carved pews and memorial pieces that are dotted on every wall. If you have an interest in architecture, history or even photography, then the Glasgow Cathedral is the building that you want to see.

Included in : Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

11. The Necropolis

Sitting directly adjacent from the Glasgow Cathedral you’ll find one of the oddest attractions that you should see during your time in Glasgow. Modelled on the Pere-Lachaise in Paris, The Necropolis is now known as one of the most significant cemeteries in the whole of Europe. In the Summer months you can find an array of flowers, bees and butterflies adding colour to the 50,000 monuments that sit in the 37 acres of land. You’re safe to explore for free, and you’re safe knowing that Park Rangers patrol the cemetery on a daily basis. Chances are you’ll recognise an area or two, as The Necropolis has featured in a wide range of television programmes and films!

12. Tiffney’s Steakhouse

If you find yourself in the West End deciding where to eat, Tiffney’s Steakhouse should be somewhere near the top of your list. Providing food that is completely sourced from local suppliers you know that you’re getting the best of quality. Their Highland cattle are reared in a natural, grass fed environment, then their beef is usually dry aged for around 50 days. Sit inside and enjoy a beautiful meal, cooked exactly how you want it. Or turn up on a Sunday and have one of their famous set Sunday Roasts, a staple tradition across the UK.

13. The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens

Do you enjoy learning about the history of each new city that you visit? Now as weather dependent as this attraction is, it will give you the opportunity to view the way life was in Glasgow throughout the 18 th to the 20 th century. Inside of the main house you’ll find a collection of artefacts, photographs, prints and films from across the years. The Winter Gardens outside of the house are beautiful, which is what makes it such a weather dependent attraction, you can wonder amongst plants from far off lands, and see the beautifully restored Doulton fountain. If you start to get a little bit hungry among the grounds, then there’s a fairly priced café where you can rest and have a bite to eat.

14. The Glasgow School of Art

You can learn a lot about the history of Glasgow from this attraction, which features an hour long tour. You can learn about the famous Rennie Mackintosh and his life, from being a student to a master designer whose work is known around the world. Unfortunately, the building did suffer fire damage recently, so it has had to be restored. The thing that really fascinates a lot of travellers about Mackintosh’s work is his mind. He managed to work in a variety of different sectors, acting as a lead architect, a painter, an interior designer and an all-round brilliant artist. His name is known to the vast majority of people who call Glasgow home, and you can see why too.

Included in this tour : Glasgow’s Music Mile Tour

15. The OVO Hydro

If you like to watch performances while you’re travelling, then it would be more than worth having a look at what artists are playing at The OVO Hydro at the time that you’re travelling. They’ve housed many a famous name in their purpose built entertainment venue, and with many surrounding bars and restaurants you’ll be able to keep yourself busy both before and after. The venue itself is quite a sight, and has enough room for a large number of people watching the performance, but it quite often shows not just music, but comedy and a variety of other shows. You do need to be aware that it can get quite busy, but for most people this just adds to the atmosphere.

16. Hunterian Museum

Adding the perfect dash to the already beautiful museums that exist across Glasgow the Hunterian Museum really is the cherry on top that finishes it off. With a mixture of permanent and temporary exhibitions you can see everything from Ichthyosaurs to Comic Invention. There is also a Zoology Museum you can enter, and both are completely admission free. Occasionally there will be a special exhibition, they cost £5 to enter. Get the Hunterian Museum added to the list of places that you want to visit while you’re in Glasgow!

17. Pollok Country Park

As the only country park within the whole of Glasgow it has its own reputation. Add to this that it has won awards such as the Best Park in Britain, and the Best Park in Europe over the past decade and you’ll know that it’s worth seeing. With walking trails set among 360 acres of green land you will be met with the opportunity to see an array of animals, including Highland Cattle, up close. Children will absolutely love it, but they’ll also be entertained by the great areas built specifically for children to play in, and the natural mini waterfalls that they’ll have the opportunities to see depending on which trail you take.

Book online : Pollok House Entrance Ticket

18. Nippon Kitchen

Just as the Hunterian Museum is the cherry on top of the museums in Glasgow, Nippon Kitchen is a restaurant that stands up on its own right. Using specialist ingredients specifically imported straight from Japan, and fresh produce from only local suppliers you can imagine that their customers are always provided with the best of service. It provides a classic, minimalistic Japanese layout, set among beautiful wooden panels. Importing their sake from Japan they can give you a wide variety to choose from, and are happy to make recommendations for you if you’re not sure. Whether it’s tempura, ramen or sushi, you’ll find it here.

19. City Chambers

Situated in the famous George Square the City Chambers act as the home to Glasgow City Council. You can take a free guided tour through the building at either 10.30am, or 2.30pm on weekdays, but unfortunately they aren’t available at the weekend. From the outside of the building you wouldn’t even get the idea to expect the grand inner chambers that lie within the case of the outer architecture. With a ballroom that appears to have stepped out of another century, and 2 spires with decorated dome ceilings. The tour guides all provide an exceptional service, telling you just the right amount of information to teach you about what you’re seeing. Make sure you take a camera with you, you’ll get some beautiful shots in there.

20. Glasgow Film Theatre

For those of you who love to see the classics of world cinema, or contemporary art house films, Glasgow Film Theatre is the place for you. It houses several film festivals a year, and you’re bound to find something you might enjoy hidden within the building, be sure to look online for a full listing of all of their upcoming shows. They take pride in taking a personal approach with their audiences, providing them with a comfortable, friendly environment to watch the film in. You can also find everything from craft beer to cake nestled within the Café Cosmo area of their Theatre. So go, sit back and enjoy yourself.

21. Grosvenor Riverboat Casino

Are you one of those travellers that enjoys the occasional trip to a casino? If you are, then add the Grosvenor Riverboat Casino to your list immediately. Nestled on the banks of the River Clyde you have a beautiful view, especially as the sun is setting down the river. Along with a their a la Carte Louisiana style restaurant they have a late night bar, and a comprehensive gaming environment. This includes roulette tables, blackjack, poker tables and popular slot machines. With friendly staff, you can either sit down and enjoy a lovely meal, or take your chance in the hand of fate.

22. Willow Tea Rooms

While everyone has different tastes, one of the two Willow Tea Rooms venues will be worth seeing while you’re in Glasgow. Going back to the famous Rennie Mackintosh, he played a large part in their design back in 1903. In fact, he designed everything about them, from the architecture to the waitresses’ outfits. While one exists on Sauchiehall Street, the other sits in the famous shopping area of Buchanan Street. Try everything from homemade sandwiches to traditional scones with clotted cream and jam. Not to mention the variety of teas and coffees that will be available to you.

25 Best Things to Do in Glasgow (Scotland):

• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
• Shopping on Buchanan Street
• Glasgow Tigers Speedway
• Bread Meats Bread
• The Riverside Museum
• The West End
• Glasgow Science Centre
• Kelvingrove Park
• The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
• Glasgow Cathedral
• The Necropolis
• Tiffney's Steakhouse
• The People's Palace and Winter Gardens
• The Glasgow School of Art
• The OVO Hydro
• Hunterian Museum
• Pollok Country Park
• Nippon Kitchen
• City Chambers
• Glasgow Film Theatre
• Grosvenor Riverboat Casino
• Willow Tea Rooms

Glasgow Travel Guide

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Set on the banks of the mighty River Clyde, Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, has not traditionally enjoyed the best of reputations. This former industrial giant changed its image irrevocably in 1990, however – when it energetically embraced its status as European City of Culture – and has continued to transform itself ever since, with the most recent feather in its cap being the hosting of the Commonwealth Games in 2014. The cityscape has been spruced up, and many visitors are knocked out by the architecture, from long rows of sandstone terraces to the fantastical spires of the Kelvingrove Museum. Glasgow is without doubt, in its own idiosyncratic way, a cultured, vibrant and irrepressibly sociable place that’s well worth getting to know.

Brief history

• Glasgow's East End

Glasgow drinking

Eating in glasgow, glasgow nightlife and entertainment.

• Glasgow's Southside
• Glasgow's West End

The city has some of the best-financed and most imaginative museums and galleries in Britain – among them the showcase Burrell Collection and the palatial Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum – nearly all of which are free. Glasgow’s architecture is some of the most striking in the UK, from the restored eighteenth-century warehouses of the Merchant City to the hulking Victorian prosperity of George Square. Most distinctive of all is the work of local luminary Charles Rennie Mackintosh, whose elegantly Art Nouveau designs appear all over the city, reaching their apotheosis in the stunning School of Art. Development of the old shipyards of the Clyde, notably in the space-age shapes of the Glasgow Science Centre and the dynamic new Riverside Museum, hint at yet another string to the city’s bow: combining design with innovation. The metropolis boasts thriving live-music venues, distinctive places to eat and drink, busy theatres, concert halls and an opera house. Despite all the upbeat hype, however, Glasgow’s gentrification has passed by deprived inner-city areas such as the East End, home of the Barras market and some staunchly change-resistant pubs. Indeed, even in the more stylish quarters, there’s a gritty edge that reinforces the city’s peculiar mix of grime and glitz.

Glasgow makes an excellent base from which to explore the Clyde valley and coast, easily accessible by a reliable train service. Chief among the draws is the remarkable eighteenth-century New Lanark mills and workers’ village, a World Heritage Site, while other day-trips might take you towards the scenic Argyll sea lochs, past the old shipbuilding centres on the Clyde estuary.

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Travel ideas for Scotland, created by local experts

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

Experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of the Scottish Highlands! Lovely Christmas Markets and winter festivals await visitors during the winter months, but this itinerary can also be turned into a summer festival hop!

Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

Want to lose yourself in Scotland's wildest natural scenery? This itinerary is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. It will allow you to get to know the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

A true 'Outlander' Adventure

Calling all Outlander lovers…you are in luck! Who would like to follow in the footsteps of the nurse Claire Beauchamp on her trip to Scotland in 1743? We have designed the perfect itinerary to experience the most charming corners that feature in the series.

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

Highland Tour: Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and Edinburgh

Discover the beautiful region of Perthshire, the famous Loch Ness and Inverness – the capital of the Highlands. Get a chance to admire Europe’s oldest mountain, stroll along sandy beaches on the Scottish West Coast, and visit the mysterious Isle of Skye.

Glasgow’s earliest history, like so much else in this surprisingly romantic city, is obscured in a swirl of myth. Its name is said to derive from the Celtic Glas-cu, which loosely translates as “the dear, green place”. It is generally agreed that the first settlers arrived in the sixth century to join Christian missionary Kentigern – later to become St Mungo – in his newly founded monastery on the banks of the tiny Molendinar Burn.

The university and the port

William the Lionheart granted the town an official charter in 1175, after which it continued to grow in importance, peaking in the mid-fifteenth century when the university was founded on Kentigern’s site – the second in Scotland after St Andrews. This led to the establishment of an archbishopric, and hence city status, in 1492, and, due to its situation on a large, navigable river, Glasgow soon expanded into a major industrial port. The first cargo of tobacco from Virginia offloaded in Glasgow in 1674, and the 1707 Act of Union between Scotland and England – despite demonstrations against it in Glasgow – led to a boom in trade with the colonies. Following the Industrial Revolution and James Watt’s innovations in steam power, coal from the abundant seams of Lanarkshire fuelled the ironworks all around the Clyde, worked by the cheap hands of the Highlanders and, later, those fleeing the Irish potato famine of the 1840s.

Shipbuilding and decline

The Victorian age transformed Glasgow beyond recognition. The population boomed from 77,000 in 1801 to nearly 800,000 at the end of the century, and new tenement blocks swept into the suburbs in an attempt to cope with the choking influxes of people. By the turn of the twentieth century, Glasgow’s industries had been honed into one massive shipbuilding culture. Everything from tugboats to transatlantic liners were fashioned out of sheet metal in the yards that straddled the Clyde. In the 1930s, however, unemployment spiralled, and Glasgow could do little to counter its popular image as a city dominated by inebriate violence and (having absorbed vast numbers of Irish emigrants) sectarian tensions. The Gorbals area in particular became notorious as one of the worst slums in Europe. The city’s image has never been helped by the depth of animosity between its two great rival football teams, Catholic Celtic and Protestant Rangers.

The city reinvented

Shipbuilding, and many associated industries, died away almost completely in the 1960s and 1970s, leaving the city depressed and directionless. Then, in the 1980s, the self-promotion campaign began, snowballing towards the year-long party as European City of Culture in 1990. Glasgow then beat off competition from Edinburgh and Liverpool to become UK City of Architecture and Design in 1999, and won the right to host the Commonwealth Games of 2014. These various titles have helped Glasgow break the industrial shackles of the past and evolve into a city of stature, confidence and style.

Glasgow's East End

East of Glasgow Cross, down Gallowgate beyond the train lines, lies the East End, the district that perhaps most closely corresponds to the old perception of Glasgow. Hemmed in by Glasgow Green to the south and the old university to the west, this densely packed industrial area essentially created the city’s wealth. Today, isolated pubs, tatty shops and cafés sit amid the dereliction, in sharp contrast to the gloss of the Merchant City just a few blocks west. You’re definitely off the tourist trail here, though it’s not as threatening as it may feel. Between London Road and the River Clyde are the wide and tree-lined spaces of Glasgow Green. Reputedly Britain’s oldest public park, the Green has been common land since at least 1178, and has been a popular spot for Sunday afternoon strolls for centuries.

The Necropolis

Inspired by the Père Lachaise cemetery in Paris, the atmospheric Necropolis is a grassy mound covered in a fantastic assortment of crumbling and tumbling gravestones, ornate urns, gloomy catacombs and Neoclassical temples. Paths lead through the rows of eroding, neglected graves, and from the summit, next to the column topped with an indignant John Knox, there are superb views of the city and its trademark mix of grit and grace.

Most drinking dens in the city centre, the Merchant City and the West End are places to experience real Glaswegian bonhomie, with a good selection of characterful pubs featuring folk music, as well as more upscale bar/clubs.

Glasgow’s restaurant scene is reasonably dynamic, with new places replacing old (and sometimes not very old) every year. Most places to eat are concentrated in the commercial hub and Merchant City district of the city centre, as well as in the trendy West End. Modern Scottish cuisine, combining excellent fresh local ingredients with Mediterranean-style cooking techniques, is on the menus of the city’s best restaurants. And Glasgwegians have a particular fondness for Indian and Chinese food, too.

Glasgow is a great place for contemporary music, with loads of new bands emerging every year, many of them making the big time, and the city’s clubs are excellent, with a range of places for every dance taste as well as a small but thriving gay scene. Glasgow is no slouch when it comes to the performing arts, either: it’s home to Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. Most of the larger theatres, multiplexes and concert halls are in the city centre; the West End is home to just one or two venues, while the Southside can boast two theatres noted for cutting-edge drama, the Citizens’ and Tramway. For detailed listings, check The List, or consult Glasgow’s Herald or Evening Times newspapers.

Glasgow's Southside

The section of Glasgow south of the Clyde is generally described as the Southside, though within this area there are a number of recognizable districts, including the notoriously deprived Gorbals and Govan, which are sprinkled with new developments but still derelict and tatty in many parts. There’s little reason to venture here unless you’re making your way to the Clydeside museums and the famously innovative Citizens’ Theatre. Further south, inner-city decay fades into altogether gentler and more salubrious suburbs, including Queen’s Park, home to Scotland’s national football stadium, Hampden Park, Pollokshaws and the rural landscape of Pollok Park, which contains one of Glasgow’s major museums, the Burrell Collection.

The Burrell Collection

The outstanding Burrell Collection, the lifetime collection of shipping magnate Sir William Burrell (1861–1958), is, for some, the principal reason for visiting Glasgow. Sir William’s only real criterion for buying a piece was whether he liked it or not, enabling him to buy many unfashionable works that cost comparatively little but subsequently proved their worth.

The simplicity and clean lines of the Burrell building are superb, with large picture windows giving sweeping views over woodland and serving as a tranquil backdrop to the objects inside. An airy covered courtyard includes the Warwick Vase, a huge bowl containing fragments of a second-century AD vase from Emperor Hadrian’s villa in Tivoli. On three sides of the courtyard, a trio of dark and sombre panelled rooms have been re-erected in faithful detail from the Burrells’ Hutton Castle home, their tapestries, antique furniture and fireplaces displaying the same eclectic taste as the rest of the museum.

Elsewhere on the ground floor, Greek, Roman and earlier artefacts include an exquisite mosaic Roman cockerel from the first century BC and a 4000-year-old Mesopotamian lion’s head. Nearby, also illuminated by enormous windows, the excellent Oriental Art collection forms nearly a quarter of the whole display, ranging from Neolithic jades through bronze vessels and Tang funerary horses to cloisonné. Burrell considered his medieval and post-medieval European art, which encompasses silverware, glass, textiles and sculpture, to be the most valuable part of his collection: these are ranged across a maze of small galleries.

Upstairs, the cramped and comparatively gloomy mezzanine is probably the least satisfactory section of the gallery, not the best setting for its sparkling array of paintings by artists that include Degas, Manet, Cézanne and Boudin.

The old firm

Football, or fitba’ as it’s pronounced locally, is one of Glasgow’s great passions – and one of its great blights. While the city can claim to be one of Europe’s premier footballing centres, it’s known above all for one of the most bitter rivalries in any sport, that between Celtic and Rangers. Two of the largest clubs in Britain, with weekly crowds regularly topping 60,000, the Old Firm, as they’re collectively known, have dominated Scottish football for a century; in the last twenty years they’ve lavished vast sums of money on foreign talent in an often frantic effort both to outdo each other and to stay in touch with the standards of the top English and European teams.

The roots of Celtic, who play at Celtic Park in the eastern district of Parkhead, lie in the city’s immigrant Irish and Catholic population, while Rangers, based at Ibrox Park in Govan on the Southside, have traditionally drawn support from local Protestants: as a result, sporting rivalries have been enmeshed in a sectarian divide, and although Catholics do play for Rangers, and Protestants for Celtic, sections of supporters of both clubs seem intent on perpetuating the feud. While large-scale violence on the terraces and streets has not been seen for some time – thanks in large measure to canny policing – Old Firm matches often seethe with bitter passions, and sectarian-related assaults do still occur in parts of the city.

However, there is a less intense side to the game, found not just in the fun-loving “Tartan Army” which follows the (often rollercoaster) fortunes of the Scottish national team, but also in Glasgow’s smaller clubs, who actively distance themselves from the distasteful aspects of the Old Firm and plod along with home-grown talent in the lower reaches of the Scottish league. All important reminders that it is, after all, only a game.

Shopping in Glasgow

The main area for spending in the city centre is formed by the Z-shaped and mostly pedestrianized route of Argyle, Buchanan and Sauchiehall streets. Along the way you’ll find Princes Square, a stylish and imaginative shopping centre hollowed out of the innards of a soft sandstone building. The interior, all recherché Art Deco and ornate ironwork, holds lots of pricey, fashionable shops. Otherwise, make for the West End or the Merchant City, which have more eccentric and individual offerings. The latter is the place for secondhand and antiquarian bookshops as well as quirky vintage and one-off fashion stores on the lanes off Byres Road.

Glasgow's West End

The urbane West End seems a world away from Glasgow’s industrial image and the bustle of the centre. In the 1800s, wealthy merchants established huge estates here away from the soot and grime of city life, and in 1870 the ancient university was moved from its cramped home near the cathedral to a spacious new site overlooking the River Kelvin. Elegant housing swiftly followed, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum was built to house the 1888 International Exhibition and, in 1896, the Glasgow District Subway – today’s underground – started its circuitous shuffle from here to the city centre.

The hub of life hereabouts is Byres Road, running between Great Western Road and Dumbarton Road past Hillhead underground station. Shops, restaurants, cafés, some enticing pubs and hordes of students give the area a sense of style and vitality, while glowing red sandstone tenements and graceful terraces provide a suitably upmarket backdrop.

The main sights straddle the banks of the cleaned-up River Kelvin, which meanders through the gracious acres of the Botanic Gardens and the slopes, trees and statues of Kelvingrove Park. Overlooked by the Gothic towers and turrets of Glasgow University, Kelvingrove Park is home to the pride of Glasgow’s civic collection of art and artefacts, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, off Argyle Street.

The Glasgow Boys and the Colourists

In the 1870s a group of Glasgow-based painters formed a loose association that was to imbue Scottish art with a contemporary European flavour far ahead of the rest of Britain. Dominated by five men – Guthrie, Lavery, Henry, Hornel and Crawhall – “The Glasgow Boys” came from very different backgrounds, but all rejected the eighteenth-century conservatism which spawned little other than sentimental, anecdotal renditions of Scottish history peopled by “poor but happy” families.

Sir James Guthrie, taking inspiration from the plein air painting of the Impressionists, spent his summers in the countryside, observing and painting everyday life. Instead of happy peasants, his work shows individuals staring out of the canvas, detached and unrepentant, painted with rich tones but without undue attention to detail or the play of light. Typical of his finest work during the 1880s, A Highland Funeral (in the Kelvingrove collection;) was hugely influential for the rest of the group, who found inspiration in its restrained emotional content, colour and unaffected realism. Seeing it persuaded Sir John Lavery, then studying in France, to return to Glasgow. Lavery was eventually to become an internationally popular society portraitist, his subtle use of paint revealing his debt to Whistler, but his earlier work, depicting the middle class at play, is filled with light and motion.

An interest in colour and decoration united the work of friends George Henry and E.A. Hornel. The predominance of pattern, colour and design in Henry’s Galloway Landscape, for example, is remarkable, while their joint work The Druids (both part of the Kelvingrove collection;), in thickly applied impasto, is full of Celtic symbolism. In 1893 both artists set off for Japan, funded by Alexander Reid and later William Burrell, where their work used vibrant tone and texture for expressive effect and took Scottish painting to the forefront of European trends.

Newcastle-born Joseph Crawhall was a reserved and quiet individual who combined superb draughtsmanship and simplicity of line with a photographic memory to create watercolours of an outstanding naturalism and originality. Again, William Burrell was an important patron, and a number of Crawhall’s works reside at the Burrell Collection.

The Glasgow Boys school reached its height by 1900 and did not outlast World War I, but the influence of their work cannot be underestimated, shaking the foundations of the artistic elite and inspiring the next generation of Edinburgh painters, who became known as the “Colourists”. Samuel John Peploe, John Duncan Fergusson, George Leslie Hunter and Francis Cadell shared an understanding that the manipulation of colour was the heart and soul of a good painting. All experienced and took inspiration from the avant-garde of late nineteenth-century Paris as well as the landscapes of southern France. J.D. Fergusson, in particular, immersed himself in the bohemian, progressive Parisian scene, rubbing shoulders with writers and artists including Picasso. Some of his most dynamic work, which can be seen in the Fergusson Gallery in Perth, displays elements of Cubism, yet is still clearly in touch with the Celtic imagery of Henry, Hornel and, indeed, Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The work of the Scottish Colourists has become highly fashionable and valuable, with galleries and civic collections throughout the country featuring their work prominently.

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Glasgow Travel Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 5, 2024

Our  Glasgow Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this Scottish city. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Glasgow!

Plan your visit to Glasgow

Famous for its architecture, arts scene, culture, sports, shopping, street art, world-class museums, shipbuilding heritage, whisky, Billy Connolly and rich history Glasgow is often overshadowed by the Scottish capital Edinburgh.

However it is a city which has undergone significant regeneration and has emerged as a tourist destination worth including in any Scotland travel itinerary.

In our Glasgow Travel Guide, we cover everything you need to know to plan your visit including what to see, how to get around, best tours and day trips, where to stay plus recommended places to eat and drink.

What you will find in this complete Glasgow Travel Guide

Map of Glasgow

☀️ when is the best time of year to visit glasgow, 📍 what is the best way to explore glasgow, 🚆 by train, 🚗 by car (road trip option), ⭐️ attractions and things to do in glasgow, what to eat & drink, afternoon tea, 🏨 accommodation in glasgow, glasgow travel guide – best tours and day trips, enjoy your visit to glasgow.

Glasgow travel guide – Visiting Glasgow FAQ’s

For warmer days and longer hours of daylight plan to visit Glasgow from June to August. In the winter Scotland is cold and hours of daylight are reduced which can limit the time to sightsee. Spring months from March to May can also be a pleasant time to visit.

Glasgow hosts many sporting, cultural, theatrical and musical events throughout the year (the city is a UNESCO City of Music) Read about events planned in Glasgow for 2022/3.

Read more about the best time to visit the UK in our detailed guide.

Whilst the centre of Glasgow is pretty walkable you will need to use either public transport or a cab to get around to all the sights. It really is too far to walk from the centre to attractions such as the Glasgow Botanical Garden, Kelvingrove Museum or Riverside Museum.

There is a good public bus network and an underground train network too but we found the best way to get around was to take the hop-on hop-off bus.

• Tip – We recommend taking the hop-on hop-off city sightseeing bus around the city. This is a great way to see the highlights and attractions of Glasgow and the most efficient way to travel the city as a visitor.
• We took the bus ourselves during our recent visit to Glasgow and enjoyed the live commentary as we toured the city. It is worth noting that while there are plenty of buses they do get busy, especially during the summer months so start out as early in the day as possible to make the most use of your ticket.
• There are some excellent Glasgow walking tours available including street art focussed.

🚂 What is the best way to travel to Glasgow from London?

Glasgow is around 4 hours 30 mins by direct train from London Euston to Glasgow Central. Click to book tickets with Omio.

The Lowlander service of the Caledonian Sleeper also travels between the two cities. Click to book tickets on the Caledonian Sleeper.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel ebook which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

If you are planning a Scottish road trip why not include some time in Glasgow? If you prefer to avoid driving in the city perhaps start your holiday in Glasgow and collect your rental car when you are ready to commence your road trip. We did this recently in Edinburgh and it avoided any issues finding accommodation with parking.

🚗 There are a multitude of car rental companies to choose from in the UK. We recommend comparing prices and deals on Discover Cars  before making your booking.

Popular attractions in Glasgow include:

• The Glasgow Cathedral
• Glasgow Necropolis
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
• George Square
• Central Chambers
• Glasgow Botanical Gardens
• Glasgow street art

⭐️ Read more about these landmarks, sights and attractions in our one-day Glasgow itinerary .

🍛 Where to eat in Glasgow

• Chicken Tikka Masala
• Neeps and tatties
• Scottish breakfast
• Cullen Skink
• Deep-fried Mars Bar
• Willow Tea Rooms – Charles Rennie Mackintosh-inspired tearooms & giftshop
• House for an Art Lover – Art Nouveau cafe
• Cranachan Cafe – Princes Square
• Red Bus Bistro – Take a vintage Routemaster bus tour and enjoy afternoon tea as you see the sights!

➡️ More accommodation options in Glasgow

More special stays – Accommodation Guide for Scotland

Glasgow is ideally located to use as a base from which to explore Scotland by train, car or bus. Popular day trips from Glasgow include:

• Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour – Discover the magnificent beauty of Loch Lomond National Park, Rannoch Moor, Glencoe, the Great Glen, Loch Ness and Pitlochry on a guided tour from Glasgow. Learn about history and folklore.
• Loch Lomond, Trossachs & Stirling Castle Tour – Explore the land and legends of Scottish heroes William Wallace and Rob Roy and experience the natural beauty of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs on this tour from Glasgow.
• Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe Adventure Tour – Journey through the rugged Highlands towards Glenfinnan, famous for its viaduct (the Harry Potter bridge). Pass through dramatic Glencoe, see the Hogwarts Express, and spend time in scenic Mallaig.
• Culzean Castle, Robert Burns Country & the Ayrshire Coast – Explore the Ayrshire Coast, the birthplace of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, on this full-day tour from Glasgow. Home to Culzean Castle and romantic countryside, you’ll find the region to be as captivating as described in the poems of Robert Burns.

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Glasgow . You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around Scotland in these travel guides:

• Things to do in Edinburgh
• Fort William Travel Guide
• Isle of Skye Travel Guide
• Inverness Travel Guide
• Highlands Travel Guide
• Scottish Islands Travel Guide

Glasgow   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Rixipix | Getty Images

Why Go To Glasgow

Just a few decades ago, Glasgow was a gray, gritty city of dank pubs and homely slums. However, the same dogged Glaswegians that survived years of deterioration kindled a cultural rejuvenation in the '80s and '90s, fanning the flames of urban renewal throughout the city. Today, Glasgow offers a high-intensity clubbing experience; an exceptionally vibrant art community; a live-music scene, which has discovered the likes of Franz Ferdinand and Snow Patrol; and numerous places to shop that range from the Barras Market and vintage shops to the jewelry at Argyll Arcade and designer stores.

When visiting, be careful not to criticize Glasgow in favor of its eastern neighbor, Edinburgh . Though it's often depicted as the rough-and-tumble sibling of beautiful Edinburgh, Glasgow has its own pictorial side. Art Nouveau architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh left his mark on many of the buildings. And expansive Kelvingrove Park , the cobblestone Ashton Lane and the soaring Glasgow Cathedral are just a few examples of the city's unique and indeed ambient appeal.

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Best of Glasgow

Best hotels in glasgow.

• # 1 in Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel
• # 2 in Dakota Glasgow
• # 3 in citizenM Glasgow

Best Things to Do in Glasgow

• # 1 in The Burrell Collection
• # 2 in Glasgow Cathedral
• # 3 in Riverside Museum

Glasgow Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Glasgow is between March and August, when temperatures reach their peak and daylight hours are long. On the flip side, the winters are characterized by bitter cold and short days. Budget airlines, flying from London Heathrow (LHR) or other major hubs, have made Glasgow travel relatively affordable year-round. But to find deals on hotels , you should book a trip over the weekend when business travelers have returned home. No matter what time of year you visit, you'll likely need an umbrella and rain jacket, as precipitation is prevalent year-round.

Weather in Glasgow

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• The subway closes early on Sundays Subway service on Sundays ceases around 6 p.m. If you're relying on the subway to get around , factor its early closing into your transporation plans.
• Glasgow is a curry capital Glasgow considers itself the "Curry Capital of Britain," so you shouldn't leave without indulging in a bite or two of Indian cuisine.
• It enjoys long summer days Thanks to Scotland's high latitude, the country enjoys extended daylight hours (as much as 15!) in the summer.
• Consider a daytrip Hot spots like Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and Troon Beach are all within an hour's drive or coach bus ride from Glasgow. Check out our list of the Best Scotland Tours for more information about companies offering organized daytrips.

How to Save Money in Glasgow

• See a show Live music is playing nearly every night, and some tickets are quite cheap. Plus, you'll be experiencing a key Glaswegian attraction. See what bands are playing here .
• Book a winter trip Wintertime's cold, short days force hotel rates down. If you don't mind bundling up, you could save significantly on accommodations.
• Enjoy free attractions Glasgow is a big art city, and many of the best museums, including the Gallery of Modern Art , the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum , and the Burrell Collection , are free.

Culture & Customs

Be careful when discussing your preference of Edinburgh/Glasgow at the expense of Glasgow/Edinburgh, as the rivalry between the cities is very real. Edinburgh may be the capital, but Glasgow has the capital – according to proud Glaswegians, that is. Glasgow can boast of not only its own many things to do, but also of those not far away, such as Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond. 

Like its United Kingdom neighbors, Scotland pays for its pints – and everything else – with the pound. Since the pound to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to  check what the current exchange rate is  before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops.

As for tipping at restaurants: A 10% tip is usually added to bills, though you should tip 5 to 10% more depending on the service. Leaving nothing extra is commensurate to saying you were poorly served. 

What to Eat

If you're on the hunt for traditional Scottish specialties, such as haggis served with neeps and tatties (grated sheep's organs and mashed potatoes and turnips) or cullen skink (a soup made of smoked haddock and potatoes), you'll find it in Glasgow. But if you're hoping to branch out from these classic Scottish dishes, you'll be pleasantly surprised at the scope of Glasgow's dining scene.

Indian fare now ranks among the city's best cuisine (in fact, Glasgow is often voted Britain's "curry capital") and deep-fried everything, especially deep-fried pizza, is another Glaswegian forte. The city is also recognized for its vegetarian and vegan fare – PETA UK named Glasgow the most vegan-friendly city in 2013.

Alchemilla , Bella Vita , Jodandys, MacTassos, Obsession of India , Ox and Finch , Scran and Wee Lochan are among the buzzy and popular restaurants demonstrating the wide variety of cuisine styles on offer in cosmopolitan Glasgow. The city also has numerous spots that are not exclusively or even primarily restuaruants, but which rank as food destinations, such as Mono (also a music venue and record store) and Drygate Brewery .

For a little help navigating Glasgow's dining scene, consider signing up for a food tour .

A bit grittier than Edinburgh (its eastern counterpart), Glasgow sees its fair share of crime, but most of it is inflamed by drugs or too much alcohol and amongst local Glaswegians. Visitors should avoid potentially volatile Orange marches, which relate to the centuries-old hostility between Protestants and Catholics.

Getting Around Glasgow

The best way to get around Glasgow is by foot. Many of the best things to do are located in the city center, and the grid layout makes it very easy to navigate. But several attractions are located on the outskirts, necessitating the use of the public transportation system or a car. Black taxis are also available, and you can hail these on the streets or find them in taxi ranks (or lines) throughout the city center. 

If you took a plane into Glasgow International Airport (GLA), you can take a train, bus, taxi or rental car the 10 miles into the city center. The easiest way to reach the city center via public transporation is the Glasgow Airport Express service 500 bus, which takes 15 minutes. Tickets cost 8.50 pounds (or about $11) for adults and 4.50 pounds (around $6) for kids.

Entry & Exit Requirements

You'll need a valid passport to travel to the United Kingdom and to return to the United States. If you're planning to travel on to other countries, your passport may require six months of remaining validity. Note that U.S. citizens do not need a visa unless they plan on staying longer than six months. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for the latest information on the U.K.'s foreign exit and entry requirements.

Buchanan Street is one of Glasgow's main shopping thoroughfares.

Explore More of Glasgow

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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TOURIST INFO

Glasgow is one of the friendliest cities in the world and the local Glaswegians will be happy to help you if you need directions or recommendations. On this page is information about travel, accommodation, and essentials. Also check out our tourist guides, including a checklist of things to do before you leave the city, translations of some of the more common and colourful phrases you may hear during your visit, and information on some of the amazing sites that can be found within easy reach of Glasgow.

tourist checklist  

A list of things to do on your visit to Glasgow. How many can you check off before you leave?

glasgow translated

Glasgow has a very distinct dialect along with several slang terms and sayings.

beyond glasgow

Glasgow is a great hub for exploring more of Scotland. See what lies beyond the city.

glasgow essentials

A quick guide to some things you will want to have with you before you visit Glasgow. 

umbrella or rain jacket

Glasgow is known for its rainfall, even in the summer months, so bring a brolly just in case.

 WALKING BOOTS

The city is built on a series of drumlins, so bring a good pair of shoes for those steep hills.

Hearty beer, fiery whiskies, spicy haggis and succulent salmon - indulge those taste buds!

A SENSE OF HUMOUR

The citizens of Glasgow love a good laugh, so bring a sense of humour to join in the banter.

glasgow TRAVEL

For bus, train and subway stations and timetables, visit Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT)

Glasgow Airport (International)

glasgowairport.com

t: 0844 481 555

Glasgow Airport (Prestwick)

glasgowprestwick.com

t: 0871 223 0700

Glasgow Central / Queen St

scotrail.co.uk

t: 08457 48 49 50

Glasgow Subway (SPT)

spt.co.uk/subway

t: 0141 332 6811

Buchanan Bus Station

spt.co.uk/bus

t: 0141 333 3708

First Bus Glasgow

firstbus.co.uk

t: 0345 646 0707

Glasgow Taxis

glasgowtaxis.co.uk

t: 0141 429 7070

Uber Glasgow

t: via the app

glasgow ACCOMODATION

Glasgow has hundreds of hotels that cater to a variety of budget and location needs. Here is a selection we would recommend based on personal experience.

We recommend Booking.com to find the best hotel deals in Glasgow

The Kelvin Hotel West End

Clifton Hotel

Euro Hostel Glasgow

Point A Hotel

Acorn Hotel

Village Hotel Glasgow

ABode Glasgow

Radisson Blu/Red

Malmaison Glasgow

One Devonshire Gardens

Blythswood Square

Hilton Glasgow Grosvenor

Glasgow Travel Guide – Things to Know Before You Go

Last Updated on: Apr 27, 2020  

Glasgow is a city of beauty. The former industrial centre has now turned into a cultural centre of Scotland. Gemma and Campbell have provided a perfect Glasgow Travel Guide to spend a perfect day in this Scottish city.

As Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow is famous throughout the world for its fascinating modern history, as well as its reputation for food and nightlife. Glasgow prides itself on its multicultural heritage and celebrates this with its wide range of culinary delights across the city. 

Glasgow is a city that is quite often overlooked by a lot of visitors, who instead choose to spend their time in the historical capital of Edinburgh. However, it is arguable that no trip to Scotland is complete with experiencing the fantastic Glaswegian nightlife, food, sights, and famous hospitality. 

Before you leave on your trip to Glasgow, there are a number of lessons to be learned that I (as a local) have picked up through the years. Get your trip to Scotland’s cultural capital off to a flying start with this guide to the most important things to know before you go to Glasgow.

Table of Contents

Glasgow Travel Guide | How to Get Around Glasgow

The city of Glasgow is actually a pretty small place to explore. It will take you no more than an hour to walk from the city centre to the West End and a lot less if you are staying in either of these places. 

Given the temperamental Scottish climate, however, walking is not a very popular way of getting around the city. Luckily, there are a few different options for getting around and between all the different parts of the city. 

Underground

Glasgow’s underground is one of the main connections between the centre, west, and south of the city. There are two tracks that run in one giant circle, one running clockwise and the other anti-clockwise. Very simple!

Tickets can be purchased at the underground stations in the city, from either the ticket office or the unmanned ticket machines. The standard subway paper ticket options include a single (£1.75), return (£3.30) or all-day ticket (£4.20). 

You can also sign up for a Smart Card, which not only gives you massively discounted rates but also means you can top-up online and skip the queue. Unfortunately, this option is only viable for long-term visitors as the card takes 2-weeks to be delivered. 

There is also the option to buy a Roundabout ticket or a Daytripper ticket, which gives access to more stations and services. This will be discussed in the Special Tickets section below. 

Scotland’s rail network is the fastest way to get between different suburbs or further afield to other parts of the country. If you are interested in taking a day trip to cities such as Edinburgh or Stirling then this is the best way to do so. 

The trains in the UK are the cheapest option to get around, with a return from Glasgow to Edinburgh costing roughly £13. Tickets can either be purchased online and collected at a station from the self-service machines, or purchased in person at the ticket booth. 

*INSIDER TIP*

Always be sure to purchase your ticket at a ticket office when possible, rather than from the conductor on the train itself. If you buy your ticket on the train, you will automatically be charged the price of a PEAK ticket, even if you are travelling OFF-PEAK.

Once again, there are other ticket options that will be discussed in the Special Tickets Section.

Another way of getting around the suburbs and city centre of Glasgow, as well as travelling intercity and to the countryside, is by bus. In the city of Glasgow, First Bus is the main operator, with its terminus sitting in the Buchannan Bus Station. 

The First Bus group operate over 100 different routes around the city centre and Greater Glasgow, meaning you can tour the beautiful and historical city with ease. Tickets can be purchased on the bus either using exact change for cash or by contactless payment by card. 

If you wish to go further afield then CityLink buses are there to take you between major cities and other popular tourist spots. Other companies that do the same job include Megabus and National Express, with Megabus being our favourite choice for getting through to Edinburgh cheaply and quickly. 

Special Tickets

The best value tickets for touring Glasgow and the surrounding suburbs come in the form of the Daytripper and Roundabout passes. 

For exploring the city centre and reaching the city from the nearby suburbs, the Roundabout Pass is the best option. This day pass allows you unlimited travel on the subway, as well as to and from 110 other stations in the Greater Glasgow area. The pass costs £7.40 and if you are heading into the city for a day of exploring, this is definitely your best option. 

The Daytripper Pass allows you unlimited travel for one day on all of the Subway and Scotrail lines in the Strathclyde region, as well as most bus services and even some ferries. If you are wanting to spend a long day exploring the countryside of Glasgow then this is the best option for you.

Glasgow Travel Guide | Best Sights in the City Centre

When it comes to exploring the city centre of Glasgow there are a huge range of sights, including historical buildings, beautiful murals, and quirky bars and restaurants. Below are some of the best sights that we recommend you check out in the city centre of Glasgow.

The Lighthouse

For the most spectacular skyline view of Glasgow, head to the Lighthouse exhibition centre off Buchannan Street. Dedicated to the famous Scottish architect, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, this museum showcases some of the wide range of architecture in Glasgow and the influence that it has had across the world. 

The area that we are interested in sits at the tallest point of the Lighthouse, which can be reached by heading to the spiralling, helical staircase in the Charles Rennie Mackintosh exhibit. Climb to the top and head out onto the balcony for the best view of Glasgow in the city centre.

Glasgow Mural Trail 

Spread all throughout the city centre of Glasgow are the beautiful, insightful and downright bizarre works of art of the Glasgow Mural Trail. The total number of these murals spread throughout the city has varied over the years, however, the current number sits at over 25 works of art.

You can easily spend an entire day wandering the streets of Glasgow, following the map of the murals and discovering each masterpiece for yourself. 

Buchannan Street Shopping

Famous throughout Scotland for its “shop till you drop” capacity, Buchanan Street is every shopaholic’s dream location. Explore the sheltered area of the St Enoch shopping centre before heading up along Buchanan Street and finishing off in Buchanan Galleries. 

Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis

Another spectacular spot for a stunning view of the city centre, the Glasgow Necropolis lies on the outskirts of the city, northeast of George Square. Just a 20-minute walk from the city centre, this historical part of Glasgow beautifully contrasts the gridded, modern metropolis of the centre.

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Glasgow Travel Guide | Where to Eat in Glasgow

If you are looking for somewhere to fill your belly after (or before) a day of exploring Glasgow’s beautiful sights, here are just some of our top recommendations across the city. Glasgow is a place of many culinary delights, a melting pot of different cultures and influences. 

No matter what style of food you enjoy, you are going to find it in Glasgow. To keep things simple, all of these restaurants can be found less than a 20-minute walk from George Square.

Cafe Gandolfi sits a 10-minute walk southeast of George Square and is a fantastic spot for Breakfast and Brunch. With locally sourced food and rustic, lightwood furniture, this cafe is a warm and welcoming way to start off the day.

La Vita on George Square is without a doubt our favourite family-run Italian restaurant in Glasgow. The 3-floor restaurant is always bustling with celebrations and romantic dinners, with excellent food and friendly staff to assist you with your meal. 

Warming and cosy place to end the day in Glasgow sits on Bath Street, about 15-minutes northwest of George Square, in the downstairs restaurant of Butterfly and the Pig. The miss-matched furniture and quirky decorations mix perfectly with the incredible food and drinks on offer. 

There is so much more to Glasgow than meets the eye and it is all just waiting to be discovered. On your next visit to the bonnie lands of Scotland, be sure to visit the thriving metropolis of the country’s largest city. Learn the history, taste the local cuisine and remember the saying “People Make Glasgow”.

Did you enjoy reading Glasgow Travel Guide? Please do let us know your thoughts by commenting below.

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10 Comments

We had a brief taste of Edinburgh last year. And it certainly did whet our appetite to return to Scotland. Looks like Glasgow should certainly be on our travel plans. Good to know that the city is walkable. But we also are ok with learning the underground system to get around. We would definitely consider the train if we did not want to do day trips into the countryside. Or just rent a car for day trips. The Glasgow Mural Trail would be on our list of things to do for sure. And of course the chance to meet the people of Glasgow!

Thank you Linda!

We’ve been looking at visiting Scotland, but we’ve only really talked about the countryside. This city looks wonderful though. I love street murals, they are a great way to showcase the talent and beauty in the city!

Murals really are a great way to showcase talents! Thank you Lia!

I have been to Glasgow many years ago and it sure has a lot of highlights to fill your day. Glasgow Necropolis looks like a beautiful place to visit and enjoy views of the city. Your pictures are stunning! 🙂

Thank you Jan!

Really great guide to Glasgow. Love the tips on public transportation as that is always the hardest part of planning a trip for me.

We visited Glasgow this past August and saw many things you mentioned in this post. I must admit, we both favor Edinburgh, but we’re glad we branched out to Glasgow too.

Glasgow is quite pretty, isnt it?

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Glasgow Travel Guide: Itinerary, Things to Do and See, Places to Stay + more

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Glasgow, Scotland

Table of Contents

GLASGOW TRAVEL GUIDE — Although not the capital, Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and most important seaport. Located on both sides of the River Clyde, the city is famous for its abundance of grand neoclassical architecture combined with cutting edge modern structures like the famous Clyde Arc, also known as Squinty Bridge.

Named European City of Culture in 1990, Glasgow has thriving music, theatre and festival scene. The city is divided into several districts, each with its own character and ambiance. You can explore the City Center, the Merchant Centre, the affluent suburbs of South Side, bohemian West End, parks on the North Side or venture into the still rather rough East End.

Chic shopping and a great variety of food, from fine dining to trying haggis in old fashioned pubs, plenty of activities will keep you entertained when not strolling through the grid-patterned streets of the city center. Time allowing, plan on excursions to Loch Ness and try to spy Nessie or follow the whisky trail.

In this Glasgow Travel Guide Blog, we listed some tips on how you can do your own DIY Day trip to Glasgow, Scotland. We also included Glasgow Itinerary, Things to do and see, how to get there and more.

Best time to visit

Glasgow’s climate is similar to that of Moscow. It rains a lot, year-round. Winters are cool and grey, although snowfall is rare. During the summer, the weather can change from one day to the next. Plan on overcast skies, and humidity in the summer but also sunny spells, most likely in July. Never leave home without an umbrella!

How to get there

Glasgow has three international airports within a 45min travel distance from the city center. They are Glasgow Airport, Glasgow Prestwick Airport, and Edinburgh Airport. There is also a seaplane terminal on the River Clyde.

All airports are easily connected to the center by bus or rail lines.

Getting around

For getting around you are spoiled for choice in Glasgow. The city has the largest urban rail system with the main stations Scottish Government Central and Queen Street Station as the stops for local trains as well as those from the rest of the UK.

The bus system is equally ample, all operated by SPT. In addition, Glasgow has a totally completed Metro system with many stops throughout. The metro is actually the easiest way to get around because it operates on a loop system so you can’t get lost.

You can also hire bikes, but be aware, they drive ‘on the wrong side ‘ of the road. Pedestrians also need to get used to it when crossing the streets.

Places to stay

From budget to 5star, Glasgow offers a great choice of accommodation for all budgets.

Alexander Thomson Hotel

[Check Rates and Availability]

My favorite is the Alexander Thomson hotel at 320 Argyle Street.

This 3-star hotel is located in a Victorian building with all the charming details of the era, high ceilings, bay windows etc. The rooms, however, are modern with private baths and more amenities than you might expect from a 3-star hotel. Situated close to a metro stop and in one of the main shopping streets of Glasgow, the hotel is an ideal starting point for sightseeing. Included in the price is an excellent and ample breakfast buffet.

Grand Central Hotel

For the higher budget, there is the 4str Grand Central Hotel on Gordon Street. The luxury hotel is located in a lavish building dating from 1883 and hosted guests such as Frank Sinatra and Charlie Chaplin. The rooms are elegant and so is the famous restaurant Tempus. Ideally situated near the central train station it’s great for exploring all the sights of Glasgow whilst sleeping in great style.

McLays Guesthouse

For the lower budget and lovers of more modern hotels, there is McLays Guesthouse in 260-276 Renfrew Street. Located at a 20 min walk from Queen Street station and close to museums and art galleries, the rooms of this friendly guesthouse are simple but very clean, with private bath, tea, and coffee making facilities and continental breakfast included in the price.

Best places to eat

When in Scotland, you certainly want to sample Scottish cuisine and one of the best places in Glasgow to do so is the Ubiquitous Chip in 12 Ashton Lane. Distributed over several floors, the downstairs restaurant is decorated to resemble a rain forest.

Scottish dishes, created using only Scottish products are the specialty of this popular restaurant.

The location alone makes the Cottiers in Hyndland Street in Glasgow’s West End worth a visit. I mean, where else can you dine in a former church?

The menu is Scottish with the occasional modern twist but otherwise heavy on pork, bacon, blood pudding and fish. Only local products are being used.

Lovers of the best and freshest fish and seafood should not miss a visit to Two Fat Ladies at the Buttery in 88 Dumbarton Road in Glasgow’s West End.

The menu changes daily to be able to use the latest catches of fish and the desserts are delicious too.

If you don’t want a sit-down meal or spend much money, the ever-popular fish and chips to be eaten out of a rolled-up newspaper and flavored with vinegar and salt is available from any corner ‘chippie’.

Glasgow Travel Guide: Things to do and see

Glasgow was founded in the 6 th century by Saint Mungo, but not much of that time or the Middle Ages remains. One such building, however, is the Glasgow Cathedral with a huge collection of stained glass windows.

It may be best to explore Glasgow by district. Start with the bohemian West End, home to many boutiques, cafes, tea rooms, and restaurants. Visit the impressive Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum with 22 themed galleries and over 8000 exhibits. Enjoy some fresh air and green in the nearby Kelgrove Park.

The city center is located on the north bank of the River Clyde. Its central square is George Square and in this part of Glasgow, you find many statues and cultural buildings like the Lighthouse Museum of Architecture, the 18 screen Cineworld or the King’s Theatre.

Proceed to the Merchant district (Merchant City) once the seat of the tobacco lords and their wealth. Streets still bear their names. Admire the prosperous past at the Tolbooth Steeple, Saltmarket or Tolgate. Today many of the old warehouses have been converted into expensive apartments and offices which in turn brought an influx of elegant shops and restaurants.

Not to be missed is a visit to one of Glasgow’s landmarks: the Clyde Arc. It’s a round bridge spanning the river Clyde connecting Finneston with Pacific Quay and the Glasgow Centre of Science. Illuminated at night the bridge looks spectacular.

Another place to learn about the history of the city in the past two centuries is a visit to the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens where you can have fun with the exhibits.

Talking about fun. If you enjoy a spot of gambling or just watching other people trying their hand, you can spend a night on the Grosvenor River Boat Casino, moored on the River Clyde. They have a great Louisiana style restaurant as well as blackjack, roulette, etc tables. And you can watch the sunset.

As we said at the beginning, Glasgow is also an ideal starting point for a small group trip to Loch Ness and other nearby sights, if you have enough time.

Best places to shop

Shopping is a big thing in Glasgow. Head for Buchanan Street and Argyle Street, in the main shopping district in Glasgow with shops and galleries stretching in all direction. You’ll find international brands as well as typically Scottish one, whisky, and tweets among them.

In Buchanan Street, you’ll also find an excellent shopping mall, the Princes Square Shopping Center.

Food, entertainment, and clothes under one roof, especially when one of the famous Glasgow rain showers starts to pour down.

Currency, language etc.

The currency is the pound sterling, but Scotland has different coins and banknotes than the UK. Get a bit of cash, otherwise, credit cards are accepted everywhere.

Luckily the official language is English, but…the citizens of Glasgow are referred to as Glaswegians or Weegies and their dialect is a variation of Scottish, known as Glasgow patter. Don’t even try to understand it, stick to English and listen carefully because Glaswegians speak English with a very strong accent.

WiFi is excellent around the city.

If you are headed for Scotland for the first time, you can hardly find a better starting point than Glasgow and her hearty people.

Glasgow Travel and Tour Packages

Check out our complete list of recommended Hotels in Glasgow, Scotland via Agoda or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » Scotland » Glasgow

9 BEST Places to Visit in Glasgow (2024)

Scotland’s largest city and a former European Capital of Culture (1990), Glasgow is a hip and vibrant city that oozes charm. Once an industrial dynamo, it is now a centre for culture, music, shopping, sports, the arts, and tourism. Other accolades include having been named as a UNESCO Creative City, a UNSECO City of Music, the European Capital of Sport (2003), and the European City of Architecture and Design (1999). With a wealth of fantastic attractions and exciting activities, there are plenty of reasons to travel to Glasgow!

Located in the north of the UK, Glasgow often sees cooler temperatures and pretty heavy rainfall. The glum weather can quickly rain off plans when visiting Glasgow.

There’s no need to be beaten by the elements, though! Glasgow has a great mixture of indoor and outdoor sites so, no matter what’s happening outside, you can be flexible with your plans and still have a great trip. Our expert team of travel writers has compiled a comprehensive list of the best places to visit in Glasgow, making sure there’s something for all conditions.

We think it’s only fair to warn you though: some of these best places to visit in Glasgow are sure to surprise you!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Glasgow:

These are the best places to visit in glasgow, faq on the best places to visit in glasgow.

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Merchant City

Merchant City is a small neighbourhood sitting within the Centre boundaries, between George Square and the river, and west of Trongate. It’s one of the more historic parts of town, being where wealthy traders had their homes in the 18th century.

• Visit GoMA to see the eye-catching and thought-provoking displays.
• Shop at exclusive stores on Ingram Street.
• People-watch at Royal Exchange Square.

Before you get going, keep in mind that Glasgow is the BIGGEST city in Scotland and it can be a smidge overwhelming when looking for where to stay and in what type of accommodation. Be sure to check out our recommendations for where to stay in Glasgow before you scroll any further down the list!

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#1 – West End – Cool place to see in Glasgow with friends!

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• Cool and trendy
• Long history
• Fun nightlife
• Great place for art lovers

Why it’s awesome: The West End is one of the coolest and hippest neighbourhoods in Scotland , not the UK. The area has a strong bohemian and youthful vibe and is filled with stunning architecture. It combines a long history with a modern atmosphere. There are plenty of great things to do and see too, ranging from trendy art galleries, interesting museums, and scenic parks to historic hotspots, lively bars and enticing restaurants. It’s a fabulous place to experience first-hand the rich diversity of Glasgow and have fun surrounded by locals and tourists alike. It’s easy to explore the West End by foot too. There’s also some incredible day trips from Glasgow to take too.

What to do there: Admire the impressive Gothic buildings that make up the University of Glasgow. Visit the Hunterian Museum and Hunterian Art Gallery, one of Scotland’s oldest museums, and marvel at the fascinating exhibits. See the reconstructed home of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, an eminent architect, designer, and artist. The Riverside Museum is a great place to visit in Glasgow if you’re into transport from through the ages. Ogle Glenlee, AKA The Tall Ship, a proud vessel that has sailed around the world four times.

Admire the works in Kelingrove Art Gallery, a Glasgow must see with pieces from around the world and from many different times in history. Relax in the attractive Victorian-style Kelingrove Park, sip some of Scotland’s finest whiskey at the Clysdale Distillery, visit St. Mary’s Cathedral, soak up the arty vibe along the so-called Hidden Lane, snap a selfie with the horse statue on Woodlands Road, shop till you drop along Byres Road, and spend an entire day (or more!) discovering the many charms in Glasgow’s West End.

Insider tip: Since West End has so many amazing attractions to explore, we’d highly recommend opting for a private guide . That way you don’t miss out on the hidden gems, but you’ll also find out cool details about each hotspot. You’ll also find some great accommodation options here so che ck out Glasgow’s best Airbnb’s in the area!

#2 – East End – A great place to see in Glasgow if you love architecture

• Medieval-era buildings
• Edgy ambience
• Magnificent cathedral
• Glasgows thriving weekend  market

Why it’s awesome: Glasgow’s East End contains the city’s medieval core and boasts a number of interesting historic buildings. This part of the large city is where visitors can experience the Glasgow of old. A former industrial area, most of the city’s former wealth was made in the East End. It’s rather edgy and gritty and many streets are run down and neglected.

There are pubs that are rough around the edges, scruffy cafes, and shops that have arguably seen better days. Visited by tourists less than other parts of the city, one can still find some charm underneath the layers of the East End. The area has, for example, a magnificent cathedral, a verdant park, and cool museums. Expect to find the unexpected in the East End!

What to do there: Admire the glorious medieval gem of Glasgow Cathedral (also known as St. Mungo’s Cathedral), which dates back to the 12th century. One of the most striking landmarks in Glasgow, it is also one of the most stunning Gothic churches in all of Scotland. Wander across to the nearby atmospheric Victorian-period Necropolis to see the impressive funerary monuments, hear whispers from the past, and soak up the awesome city views.

See Glasgow’s oldest house, the 171 Provand’s Lordship, learn more about local beliefs and history at the St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art, stroll through Dennistoun for a taste of early suburban life, see tons of street art, and pick up an array of goods at the bustling Barras Market (open at weekends). Take a leisurely stroll across Glasgow Green, one of the oldest public parks in the UK, and travel back in time at the People’s Palace, a Glasgow must-see for anyone interesting in local history.

Insider tip: East End, and Merchant Market, are known for their incredible music venues. If you’re interested in finding out more about their history, join one of the walking tours through the two neighbourhoods with a local guide. Just like West End, the East End is best explored that way!

#3 – People’s Palace – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Glasgow

• No admission fee
• Learn about Glasgow’s social history
• Interesting and informative
• Special events

Why it’s awesome: Open since 1898, the People’s Palace is one of the best free attractions in Glasgow. It was established to give local people a place to go to enjoy culture in an otherwise overcrowded and congested part of the city. It used to feature quiet reading spaces and rooms for recreation, along with a gallery and a museum, but today it is an informative museum that deals with Glasgow’s social changes and heritage. The museum also regularly hosts special events for the whole family.

What to do there: Discover more about the people of Glasgow and the different ways of life from through the ages. One of the best Glasgow vacation ideas for fans of sociology, history, and anthropology, you can learn all about local life in different public and private arenas, including at work, at study, at home, and during leisure time. See reconstructed rooms that depict various settings from different time periods, and see how locals performed a range of everyday tasks, such as doing laundry, cooking, and socializing. Read personal accounts from Glaswegians of the past, see historic photographs and documents, admire art, take place in fun workshops, and see a large selection of exhibits.

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#4 – The Gorbals – One of the most underrated places to see in Glasgow

• Lesser-visited destination
• Regeneration projects
• Unusual attraction
• Gorgeous church

Why it’s awesome: Located on the banks of the Clyde River, The Gorbals was once a densely populated area, home to a large migrant community drawn to the city for work. The population gradually reduced and the area has been through many changes over the years. Many old buildings were demolished, with tower blocks replacing tenements, only to later be replaced again by more liveable buildings. It may appear at first glance that there isn’t much of tourist interest in The Gorbals, but look closer and visitors will find a handful of interesting attractions and activities, including one of the most unusual things to do in Glasgow !

What to do there: See the elegant Caledonia Road Church, a Victorian jewel with a soaring tower and Greek-style portico. The area has further churches that are worth a quick peek, along with an old synagogue. Other points of interest in Glasgow’s area of The Gorbals include the Citizens Theatre (house in an old Victorian building), the old Caledonian Railways Building, Carlton Suspension Bridge, the Southern Necropolis, and New Gorbals Park. There are plenty of eye-catching pieces of public art, including the Gorbals Boys. Step into Blessed St John Duns Scotus to find one of the area’s most unusual things—a small wooden box that is said to contain bones of St. Valentine! It’s one of just a handful of places around the world to have relics from the saint of love.

#5 – Glasgow Science Centre – Awesome place to visit in Glasgow with kids!

• Family-friendly attraction
• Information and interactive
• IMAX cinema
• Amazing views

Why it’s awesome: Open since 2001, the award-winning Glasgow Science Centre is a great addition to any Glasgow itinerary for families, Engaging, interactive, educational, and heaps of fun, the museum is one of the most popular child-friendly attractions in Scotland. There are also cool activities and exhibits aimed at older visitors, meaning that the whole family can enjoy learning more about science. It is comprised of three main buildings: the Science Mall (designed to look like a ship’s hull), an IMAX cinema, and Glasgow Tower. Several TV programs have used the Science Centre to film various scenes.

What to do there: Challenge your own senses at Question of Perception, with its many visual illusions, thought-provoking activities, and cool challenges. Learn more about the marvellous human body at Bodyworks, where you can uncover interesting facts about germs, DNA, movement, reproduction, the nervous system, and more, with a combination of hands-on activities and displays. Young physicists are sure to enjoy the Quantum Technologies section, while budding astronomers will love the Planetarium. Watch a demonstration in the Science Show Theatre to be amused and intrigued, and take a seat in the large IMAX theatre to enter the world of nature, explore under the sea, and travel the globe. Ride to the top of the Glasgow Tower in the fascinating viewing cabin and soak up the splendid views of Glasgow spread out beneath you.

#6 – Buchanan Street – A great place in Glasgow if you love to shop!

• Various shops
• Places to relax
• Modern art gallery
• Concert venue

Why it’s awesome: Glasgow is one of the premier shopping cities (after London) in the whole of the UK and Buchanan Street is one of the most famous places in Glasgow  for people who love a bit of retail therapy. It’s a great place to bag a bargain! One of Glasgow’s main shopping streets, Buchanan Street was born in the 1770s. Subsequent years have seen much growth and regeneration, and today the street has attractive granite paving, dazzling blue neon lighting, and a wealth of retail outlets. Street entertainers enhance the vibe and there’s a good selection of places to take a break and grab some refreshments.

What to do there: Stroll along the lively pedestrianized Buchanan Street and feast your eyes on the elegant Victorian buildings that line the street, many of which are now home to an array of shops, cafes, and eateries. Don’t miss going inside the Argyll Arcade, which is Britain’s oldest Victorian shopping centre. Take a picture of the proud statue of Donald Dewar, a former First Minister of Scotland, and admire buildings like the Glasgow Stock Exchange building and St. George’s-Tron Church. Get a creative fix at the Gallery of Modern Art and enjoy an evening of culture at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. Of course, however, one of the main reasons to visit Buchanan Street is to shop! You’ll find a huge assortment of goods here, housed in a large number of shops. The dazzling window displays are sure to tempt you inside!

Insider Tip: Buchanan Street is one of the main attractions in Glasgow. If you’re on a tight schedule and want to see as much as possible, join a city centre walking tour which will include this epic place and many others that you shouldn’t miss out on!

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#7 – Pollok Country Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Glasgow

• Outdoor activities and nature
• Walking and biking trails
• Arts and antiques
• Meet Highland cows

Why it’s awesome: The pretty and award-winning Pollok Country Park is the only country park in Glasgow. Covering some 361 acres (16 hectares), it has the honour of having been named Britain’s Best Park in 2006. Furthermore, it was also named the Best Park in Europe in 2008! Once part of a grand estate, the park was gifted to the city on the condition that it would remain a public park. There are various activities to enjoy within the park, as well as several interesting buildings. It’s a top spot in Glasgow to escape the crowds and relax in a scenic and peaceful setting.

What to do there: Wear comfortable shoes and set off along the long walking trails that lead through lush greenery. Spot various wildlife and nature in the woodlands and unwind in the well-maintained and colourful gardens. You can also come face to face with large Highland cattle and beautiful horses. There are cycling trails to enjoy too, and you can challenge yourself along the orienteering trail. Have a look at the Burrell Collection, a large collection of art and antiques, for some creative inspiration, and let kids go wild in the play areas.

Insider Tip: Note that if you want to get into the Pollok House, you’ll have to purchase entry tickets . To skip the line, it’s much more efficient if you pre-book your tickets online!

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#8 – Partick – One of the nicer places in Glasgow to sightsee!

• Hip and trendy area
• Youthful vibe
• Shopping and dining
• Farmers market

Why it’s awesome: Located at the edges of the River Clyde, Partick has strong connections with the lush and rugged Scottish Highlands. Visitors can see the Gaelic language in several places. Once a small village, the area has ancient roots. Strathclyde royalty and the Bishops of Glasgow once called the area home. Today, there are many student accommodations in Partick, and it is known for being one of the coolest parts of the city. Indeed, it is often said to be one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the whole of the UK! Lively and diverse, it has many eclectic cafes and great places to eat.

What to do there: Soak up the vibe of Partick in one of the cool cafes and restaurants, with cuisine available from various parts of the planet. Visit the Hamilton Crescent cricket ground to see where the first-ever international football match was played. Held in November 1872, it was between England and Scotland. You can soak up the sense of history in the Quakers Graveyard, a peaceful place with interesting monuments and memorial. Go for a walk along White Street and see the former home of renowned Scottish comedian Billy Connolly. If you’re in Partick on the second or fourth Saturday of the month, don’t miss the vibrant farmers’ market at Mansfield Park.

#9 – Glasgow Botanic Gardens – One of the most romantic places to visit in Glasgow!

• Wide array of flora
• Gorgeous glasshouses
• Peaceful vibe

Why it’s awesome: The beautiful botanic gardens are one of the most romantic hotspots in Glasgow. There are scenic outdoor gardens that are ideal for hand-in-hand strolls, as well as a number of plant-filled exotic greenhouses. There are plants from all over the world, include those that normally grow in temperate and tropical regions. A proud holder of a Green Flag Award, the picturesque gardens sit alongside the River Kelvin. Sitting on the site of a previous railway line, the gardens have been at the same spot since the early 1840s. There is no charge to enjoy the gardens.

What to do there: Inhale the sweet scents in the charming wild rose garden, follow the footpath alongside the river, view the national collection of tree ferns, and see diverse botanic species in the glasshouses. Appreciate the striking Kibble Palace from outside before stepping inside to see tree ferns, orchids, and other plants. The large glass and wrought-iron structure was built in the 1860s and moved to its present location in the 1870s. You can also see an assortment of interesting statues within the greenhouse, including The Elf, The Nubian Slave, King Robert of Sicily, and Stepping Stones. After your visit, pause for a while with your love in the quaint tearoom.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Glasgow

What is famous in Glasgow?

One of the most famous attractions in Glasgow is Buchanan Street which is known for its shopping facilities.

What is a free place to visit in Glasgow?

People’s Palace is a free place to visit in Glasgow and is a really interesting attraction where you can learn about Glasgows social culture.

Why is Glasgow a good place to visit?

Glasgow is home to some of the friendliest people and it has a ton of history and things to do, which is why it’s a great place to visit.

Is Glasgow a safe place to visit?

Glasgow is a safe place to visit, especially for tourists. You should be mindful of pickpockets around tourist attractions, but major crimes are rare.

Discover the best places to visit in Glasgow

There are many diverse attractions in Glasgow, spread through interesting neighbourhoods that provide glimpses into local life. Whether you’re looking for top-class shopping, exciting sightseeing, somewhere to have fun with the family, a thrilling night scene, or something else entirely, Glasgow is sure to not disappoint. Add these best places to visit in Glasgow to your travel bucket list for a great city break in one of Scotland’s most exciting destinations.

If you’re really short on time whilst visiting Scotland but still want to see Glasgow then it also makes for a great day trip from Edinburgh .

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

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